A Word from Pastor Stephen – May 14, 2020

“I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:34-35 NRSV)

Jesus has just finished washing the disciple’s feet. Jesus was demonstrating to them what it means to be servant leader. The only ones who are worthy of teaching and ministering in the name of Jesus are those who are willing to do the most menial tasks of service.

After this humble act of service, Jesus gives the disciples a new commandment. Jesus didn’t say it was an option or a suggestion or a choice. It was a commandment. They are to love one another. It is not just any old love either. They are to love one another in the same manner that Jesus had loved them.

A mark of our Christian devotion is truly how we love one another. This must begin with how we love each other within the fellowship of the church. If we can’t get it right inside of the church, how can we take that love out into the world? The world will rightly judge us by how we love each other. We have been given a high and worthy calling. Love each other! Amen.