Love

 John 13:34 ESV

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 


At first glance this might not seem to be a new commandment. After all, Moses said to love our neighbours. Yet Jesus raises the bar even higher.

Moses said to love our neighbours as we love ourselves. Jesus says to love others as he has loved us, and given himself for us. We're to die to self and live for others.

The law commands us to walk, but gives no crutches. The Gospel tells us to fly, and gives us wings! So said John Bunyan, the author of Pilgrim's Progress.

Love isn't just about doing good for others. It's possible to do that without love, like a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. We're to have a heart attitude of compassion towards others too, not just a legalistic sense of duty to be charitable.

'God, don't let our fear of mixed motives stop us from demonstrating love. Please help us to match our hearts and hands in love for others. For the glory of Jesus, amen'.

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