April 17
JOHN 13:34-35
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
MAUNDY THURSDAY
"Maundy" is a word that we rarely, if ever, use. The only time we think about this term is once a year on Maundy Thursday. The word "maundy" comes from the Latin word "mandatum," which means "command."
After thousands of years of the Jewish people trying to live by and navigate the 613 Jewish laws, Jesus simplifies and elevates the law with one direct statement: Love. To fully understand how to love each other, we must grasp the extent of Jesus’s love for us.
Jesus loves you even though you speak half-truths, make comments to manipulate, and outright lie.
Jesus loves you even when you say divisive and abhorrent things about others.
Jesus loves you despite the way your pride fractures relationships.
Jesus loves you even when your self-centered decisions prevent you from living a life of generosity.
Jesus loves you even when you use your power to marginalize those you lead.
Jesus loves you even when you serve yourself and ignore the needs of others.
Jesus loves you even when you choose not to forgive and allow bitterness to grow.
Jesus loves you, no matter what. Period. This is the kind of love that Jesus commanded us to extend to each other. Love everyone, even in difficult circumstances.
(What is God telling you to do? Write it down!)
- PRAY -
Pause and pray. Pray over the Scripture and listen to what God is saying to you. Celebrate God's presence and hand your requests over to Him.
