Commandment of Love
The Commandment of Love: Living According to God's Instructions
The Word of God emphasizes the importance of love in our daily lives. Love is not just an emotion, but a conscious choice designed to lead to actions. In the New Testament, we see how Jesus Christ elevates love to the highest value, declaring it to be the greatest commandment.
Matthew 22:37-39“Jesus said to him, 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'”
From these words, we can conclude that love for God is the foundation of our lives. When we sincerely love God, it reflects in our relationships with others. Relationships built on love not only enrich our lives but also bear witness to our faith.
Each of us is called to live in love, and this calling includes not only pleasant moments but also challenges. Sometimes it can be difficult to love those around us, as people can cause pain or distress. However, the Apostle Paul teaches us that true love is unconditional and selfless love.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7“Love is patient; love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
In this passage, we see how love manifests in various aspects. God's love, which is expressed in us, can reach the hearts of others. This invites us to serve, to engage in actions that unite us in Christ.
Living in love also means forgiving. It is important to remember that forgiveness is not just an act of verbal acknowledgment but a deep movement of the soul. When we forgive, we free ourselves from the burden of resentment and open the door to new relationships and experiences. We should strive to forgive as Christ forgave us.
Colossians 3:13“Bear with one another and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Living in love also means serving our neighbor. There are various ways to express love: verbal gratitude, physical assistance, emotional support. We must be ready to open our hearts and hands to those in need.
Ultimately, how can we live according to the commandment of love? It begins with our personal relationship with God. Reading the Bible, praying, and communing with other believers will help us grow in love. Let us remember that love can be the bond that connects us to all living beings.
If we want to be witnesses of Christ in this world, we must be bearers of His love. May our love be active, selfless, and may our actions reflect Christ in all that we do.
Let us explore this commandment of love every day and strive to realize it in our lives, for love is at the heart of our calling. May God bless you on this journey!
