Reflections from the April 24 Gospel
John 13:31-33a, 34-35
As Christians, we are called to be Christ’s witnesses in the world by loving others. In today’s Gospel reading, he gave us a new commandment, “As I have loved you, so you also should love one another.” Anyone, everyone, should be able to look at us and see this love in action. If we are not witnesses to this love, then we are falling short of our mission.
So, how did Jesus love us? Selflessly. He often suffered for us, and not just on the cross. He faced rejection and animosity for loving those who were considered “unlovable” in his culture. He lived a life of poverty and simplicity, always willing to give of himself. This is the love we are called to imitate. The task can feel daunting. We are not perfect people, and being witnesses to Christ-like love can strike us as a lofty challenge. Thankfully, however, Jesus doesn’t expect us to do this on our own. He promises us his Spirit to live in us and love through us. Through our baptism, we have his Spirit dwelling in our hearts, along with the supernatural gifts of faith, hope, and love. May we make these gifts flourish.
Questions of the Week
John 13:31-33a, 34-35:
How well do you follow this “new commandment” of Jesus to love
one another?
Acts 14:21-27:
Why do you think Paul returned to the city that tried to stone him to death?
Revelation 21:1-5a:
What do you find most appealing in John’s
final vision?