Love That Points to Jesus

On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus gave His disciples a command that would shape their life together: love one another. He had washed their feet, taking the place of a servant. Now He called them to follow His example—not merely to speak about love, but to practice it with humility and care.

The measure of this love is found in His words, “as I have loved you.” Jesus did not love His disciples because they understood everything or never disappointed Him. He knew their weaknesses, yet He continued to teach, serve, and care for them. His love would be displayed supremely at the cross, where He gave Himself for us.

Loving this way can stretch us. It may mean listening when we would rather defend ourselves, serving when no one notices, or refusing to turn another person’s failure into gossip. Christlike love does not pretend that wrongdoing is harmless. It seeks another person’s good with truth, patience, and a heart willing to forgive.

Jesus also tells us that our love for one another bears witness to Him. Our words about faith matter, but the way we treat fellow believers should agree with those words. When we care for the overlooked, bear one another’s burdens, and speak graciously through disagreements, we give others a glimpse of the Savior we follow.

We do not have to manufacture this love through determination alone. We can come to Jesus, remember the mercy we have received, and ask the Holy Spirit to help us obey. Today’s opportunity may be small and ordinary, but it matters. Let the love Christ has shown you shape the love you offer someone else.