Marked By Love

Scripture:

“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.”

Devotion:

On the eve of his crucifixion, Jesus gave his disciples a powerful instruction—one that would mark their identity and mission: it could be understood simply as "love one another." Not just any kind of love, though: he set the standard higher—just as I have loved you. This was not a suggestion borne out of feeling; instead, it was a command born out of the instance of Christ-sacrificial, selfless, and determined love.

To Jesus, truly being loved constitutes the most significant testimony the world will ever have, rather than eloquent sermons, mass rallies, or religious rituals; loved speaking of His followers would seem supernatural to this world. Love then becomes an unstated vector showing people that we belong to Jesus.

This "new commandment" is about more than just niceties. It beckons us to be compassionate, forgiving, humble, patient, and diligent in service. It calls for a love that roars louder than any words and glows brighter than any light.

Reflection:

Are you loving others the way Christ loves you? Do kindness, humility, and grace characterize your life? The world is watching—and Jesus says love is the mark of a true disciple.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for loving me with a love that never fails. Teach me to love others as You have loved me. Let my words, actions, and attitudes reflect Your heart. May the world see You in the way I love. In Your name I pray, Amen.