Brotherly Love

One of the first things Jesus said to his apostles in his final teachings to them before he went to the cross was this, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35). One of the first things we should be known for among non-believers is our deep love for one another. How can we love others if we first aren’t loving one another well? I know it’s difficult for us because too often we only want to show care to those that don’t rub us the wrong way. The reality is that loving one another is not a suggestion but a commandment. The preceding verse (John 13:34) Jesus says, “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.” Our love for one another is a witness to the Gospel message. Embracing brotherly/sisterly love towards one another glorifies God. It shows the world that regardless of your past, Christ makes you new and you are welcomed into his family. We are unified when we love one another and embrace our different gifts for the Lord. It magnifies Christ and the work he has done. So let us let go of our petty squabbles, political differences, and unjustified grudges so we might love one another, and people will see we are Christ’s disciples.