United We Stand, Divided We Fall

John 13:34-35
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.  By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Notice Jesus said, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another.” Was that a new commandment? Well with the type of love He was referring to, yes. He was speaking of being united in heart and Spirit. He was referring to what He called the greatest commandment; “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind…love your neighbor as yourself.”

In regards to what He is saying, yes it was a new commandment. Love has to be the driving force of our relationship with God and each other. If we merely tolerate each other, what is that worth? The Godless do that. If we allow factions and words and even dirty looks to divide us, are we any better than the Godless?

Jesus added, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love (have intimate spiritual communion) for one another.” Basically, there should be no way to divide us AT ALL! What does the world see in us Christians that compelles them to come to Jesus? It should be the way way hove a sense of community. How we love each other, forgive one another, and reconcile differences quickly.

Prayer:
Lord, I know You have been trying to pull Your people together to make us ready for Your coming. Help us to act like Your people, a people that You bought with Your blood. Help us to love, forgive and reconcile like You prescribed for us to love, forgive and reconcile. Help us to be the spotless bride You are coming for! In Your name Lord, Amen!