The ministry of love is one of the key commandments emphasized by Jesus Christ in the New Testament. It is a commandment akin to evening stars that guide us through a gloomy sky. When we talk about relationships with others, each of us can ask, "How can I express this love in my everyday life?"
First, let’s consider what love means in the context referenced by Jesus. As we know from
John 13:34-35, love is not just an emotion but an active expression. It is something we express through our actions and words."A new command I give you: Love one another; as I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
According to Scripture, love cannot be selfish. It calls us to sacrifice our desires for the sake of others. When we place love first in our relationships, we begin to see people as God sees them.
1 John 4:7Here we see that true love comes from God Himself."Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God."
Often, when we talk about love, the greatest challenges arise in relationships with those who disagree with us or have different views. Yet it is in such moments that we are called to witness true love.
Romans 13:10If we truly love our neighbor, we will not harm them."Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law."
In practice, the ministry of love can take many forms. It can be simple acts, such as helping a neighbor in a tough situation or following the commandments when we support those in need. For example, we might become volunteers in a local organization or assist in the church—these are all practical ways we can fulfill this commandment.
In conclusion, by fulfilling the commandment of love in our relationships, we also receive great grace from Heaven.
James 3:17This wisdom will guide us in our relationships, making them healthy and productive."But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere."
May our ministry of love be a shining example to all those around us. Let us open our hearts to new opportunities to serve others, and may this be the testimony that brings blessings into our lives and the lives of those we love!
Let us remember that love is not just a word, but a way of life. Start today by placing love at the center of your relationships. In doing so, we will not only fulfill the commandment but also reflect Christ in our world.