a love-ly day
"As My love has been for you, so must your love be for each other." —John 13:34
Judas had just left the upper room to betray Jesus (Jn 13:31). Jesus knew He would be dead in a matter of hours. He said to His apostles: "My children, I am not to be with you much longer" (Jn 13:33). Then Jesus gave us the new commandment, to love one another as He had loved us (Jn 13:34). Jesus repeated this commandment two more times and said we would be recognized as His disciples because of this unique love (Jn 13:34-35). Within a few hours after saying this, Jesus died on the cross because of His love for us.
Jesus has clearly commanded us to crucified, sacrificial, unconditional love. He calls us to love the Judases in our lives. He calls us to lay down our lives (1 Jn 3:16) in love, even for our enemies. This new commandment of love is the essence of salvation, the meaning of life, and the way to the Father.
Jesus suffered for thirty-three years of life, three years of public ministry, and over three hours of agony, crucifixion and death because of His love for us. Let us live the new commandment and love one another as Jesus has loved us.
Prayer: Jesus, may I repent and accept Your heart of love for the person I least love.
Promise: "The One Who sat on the throne said to me, 'See, I make all things new!' " —Rv 21:5
Praise: Alleluia! Jesus, You have conquered sin and death. You are the Lamb of God Who takes away all our sins (Jn 1:29). Thank You, Jesus!
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our tape Love on audio AV 58-1 or video V-58.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, November 2, 2012
The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.