As I Have Loved You

Today’s Message was written by friend Chaplain Bob Griffiths.

Way back on May 18, we marked Jesus’ ascension into heaven. This is celebrated 40 days after his resurrection from the dead, But we are still charged to live out his final commandment to us: “I give you a new commandment: to love one another, just as I loved you so that you would also love one another, That is how all will know you are my students: if you have love amongst yourselves.” (Andy Gaus translation) And how will people know that? Because they will be living it – displaying that love. As St. Francis famously said, “Preach the Gospel at all times; use words if necessary.” Actions indeed speak louder than words!

In these days of instant everything, from oatmeal to telephone calls to social media postings, everything MUST be accomplished as quickly as possible. Let’s remember that it’s far more challenging to live out Jesus’ final commandment and demonstrate love than to have a knee-jerk reaction/response to whatever happens to me. Shoot at cars and people who pull into my driveway in error? Interrupt a school board meeting by shouting back in response to a comment I disagree with? The list grows daily.

I have a neighbor who is at the opposite end of the political belief spectrum from me. And they, and I, treat each other with respect and kindness. And why not? They are kind and caring people! I have never heard them say an unkind word about anybody. It’s always a pleasure to see them and to express ourselves with friendliness, love, and concern.

So how am I doing today with living out Jesus’ final commandment to us, his students, and followers? Or to Buddha’s clearly expressed comments about how to live our lives? Or any other major ethical/faith-based teachings? Because nothing is just about me – it’s about us, and how I treat another child of God.

Let us pray: God of Grace, we recall your love for us, and your forgiveness and grace.

And we remember that you have called us to a better path. Draw near to us, as we hand over to you any resentment, anger, or hatred we may be feeling. Empower us to let go. And as we do, may your healing Spirit move deep within us. To help those in need of a friendly word and perhaps a hug, Grant this, we pray, so that we may pay forward Christ’s never-ending love for us. Amen.