Imagine knowing you had less than 24 hours to live. And you know that betrayal and suffering are coming. What would you say to the people you love most?
That’s the moment we step into today in Holy Week — Maundy Thursday. In John 13, Jesus and His disciples are gathered in the upper room, preparing for the Passover meal. The disciples didn’t know it yet, but this would be their final night with Jesus.
Before the night is over, a friend will betray Him and soldiers will arrest Him. The next afternoon, He will be beaten, condemned, and hanging on a Cross.
And knowing all of that — before all of that — Jesus does something remarkable.
The Son of God, maker of heaven and earth, kneels down and washes His friends’ feet. And then He 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.” (John 13:34)
A love that stoops low — that serves. A love that will soon take Him to the Cross. And it was a love that continues to give… even when He knows people will let Him down.
The Lord knew who would betray Him. Who would deny Him three times. That the others would scatter. And still, He loved them.
Love for One Another
So, to bring this a little closer to home for us as we approach Good Friday and Easter, let me ask you: “Is there someone in your life who has let you down? Hurt you? Disappointed you?” You probably didn’t have to think very long. I’m sure someone came to mind.
Jesus knows what it’s like to love people who let you down. And He still chose love.
So here’s the question for you and me today: “Would the Lord have you keep holding that grudge? Or keep avoiding them? Or would Jesus have you love — the way He has loved you?” A love that knows you completely, and loves you unconditionally.
This is the kind of love that moments before the Cross, Jesus commands us to demonstrate toward one another.
Amen.
Reflection Questions for Today
1. Jesus gave the command to love one another knowing His disciples would all abandon Him. How does that change the way you think about loving people who have disappointed you?
2. What’s one practical way you could demonstrate Christ-like love to someone who’s been hard to love?
Posted in A Word from the Pastor