It was a Thursday evening. Jesus shared his last supper with his disciples. He washed the feet of his followers (Jesus was always doing unexpected things) and said to them, “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.” A commandment to love one another. How strange. How can anyone command love? Can you order people to feel certain ways? Love, as Jesus means it, is not a feeling but an action. Love is something we do. Jesus commands us to act in loving ways toward each other, to practice kindness, compassion and self-sacrifice. Jesus expressed his love for us by giving his life for our sake. And for our sake, he commands us to love one another.

Jesus knew how hard it would be for his followers. They would face many challenges. They would need him and each other. So at that last meal he took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to them saying, “This is my Body. Do this to remember me.” Do this–the second command. Jesus followers are instructed to come together at the table with his very body and blood before us. We are to be as sisters and brothers sharing his precious gifts. Fed by this holy meal we will have what it takes to love one another. In that love we can face whatever comes.

Read John 13:1-35, and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Wayne