When put into practice, loving one another changes us and everyone we meet. Something about being around a loving person warms the atmosphere of a conversation, a family, and any relationship. As Jesus shared His last meal with the disciples before His crucifixion, He told them how love can make a difference. John 13:34 So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. 35 Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.[1]
We can show others we are Jesus’ disciples by loving one another. Jesus knows that putting love into action reveals what is in our hearts and our beliefs. Loving one another may be difficult, but we can with the Lord’s help. Jesus knows that if we share the Gospel effectively, we must lead by example by loving one another. While a critical spirit turns people away, a loving spirit draws people to the Lord.
Being Loved
Paul knew the importance of love as he wrote to the church in Thessalonica. 1 Thessalonians 1:9 But we don’t need to write to you about the importance of loving each other, for God himself has taught you to love one another. 10 Indeed, you already show your love for all the believers. throughout Macedonia. Even so, dear brothers and sisters, we urge you to love them even more.[2]
Has there been a time in your life when being loved moved your heart? Place yourself as a disciple when Jesus washed their feet after the Passover meal and told them to love one another. To love one another takes something supernatural from the Lord working in us that requires faith.
Loving One Another Makes a Difference
One of the growing problems we have in today’s world with social media is loneliness. While people may appear to be connected, they are isolated. An easy way to make a difference in those around us is to be a good listener. People want to be loved and greatly desire to be listened to. When the Lord transforms us, He allows us to love one another, including our neighbors.
The greatest need in the world today is not technology, government programs, or other material things but to feel loved. The only way this type of love can come about is through God working through us by calling us to faith and transforming us. The love the Lord gives us to love one another is the work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts. When we love our neighbors, God works through us to love them. Ask the Lord today to place you where your light can shine and give you the courage to share his love with those He brings into your life. To learn more about loving one another, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/live-with-commitment
[1-2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.