"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
John 13: 34 & 35
"As I have loved you." There's the heart of it all! I am to love others in the same way that Jesus loves me - and just how is that? He washes my feet, he does not condemn me, he forgives me 70 times 7, he does not cast the first stone, he laid down his life for me. What a tall order! Yet it is a command. Why is it so important that Jesus insists upon it?
As he explains in the next verse: "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." It is like a brand name on the back of my jeans, or like an accent or a distinguishing feature so that all the world may recognize me as a Christian. If I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. (see 1 Corinthians 13)
I read an article in the paper the other day entitled "Deadly Start to Holy Month in Iraq." In the Muslim world, Ramadan is meant to be a month set aside for spiritual growth and generosity. According to the article, it is "shaping up to be the deadliest in Iraq." Just seven days into Ramadan, one hundred sixty-nine Iraqis have been killed as suicide attacks and car bombings widely spread chaos and fear. Folks have been killed while playing a game, swimming with friends, shopping for festive dinners or coming home from prayers.
As a Christian, may I remember the words of Jesus and strive to be a part of the solution to the problems in this world. The best place to start is to love one another. After all, I see what happens in a religion that has not love.
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