“Just as I have loved you, you should also love one another. By this everyone will know you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” The question is, how has Jesus loved us? He knelt at the feet of his friends and humbly washed their feet. He not only knelt before those who were part of his inner circle – those closest to him – but included them all. Even Judas, who had already decided to betray Jesus for his own gain.
How does the world know we follow Jesus – not only as individuals, but as a faith community? What sets us apart from those who are not disciples of Christ? Are we willing to humble ourselves and serve even the people whose actions and motivations we may not like? There are times when I catch myself speaking ill of someone I disagree with or judging someone without taking time to learn more about their story. There are times I build walls and refuse to consider a different perspective from mine. I identify this as sin and a failure to love. If pride and stubbornness was all someone heard coming from my mouth, they would have no way of knowing I am a follower of Jesus. What, in your life, keeps you from being known for your love?
Offer a prayer of thanksgiving for Jesus’ example of love and humility, and ask for the same spirit in yourself.