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Introduction: Whom Am I Challenged To Love?
This Sunday’s Gospel – again brief but to the point! – comes from the evangelist John, who highlights “glory” throughout this passage – and throughout his writings to the early church. John continues to focus on Jesus as glorious, majestic, noble, divine – someone who is always “in charge.” This theme obviously ties into the Risen Christ of our Easter Season – a season that continues until Pentecost.
By selecting this particular passage, the Church is, in a way – back-peddling to the Last Supper scene to emphasize the parting legacy of Jesus to his disciples: Love one another. That says it all. And it’s a fitting reminder to the early Christian communities, as well as to ourselves today, that people will know us by our love for one another. “I give you a new commandment; love one another.”
Love in John’s Gospel is not emotion, sentiment, or personal attraction, but very practical, dynamic, sacrificial, and quite demanding. In short, Jesus’ followers are not called to a syrupy “Hallmark Card Love!” In effect, love will now be the distinguishing mark of discipleship – rather than dress, robes, stoles, rituals, diet, or observance of the law. Love is deeper than that. It’s a “tough love.” A love that will cost us.
What are some examples of a “Hallmark Card love?
What are some examples of that demanding love that Jesus calls us to live each day?
This is a type of love that is shown in service and sacrifice – as modeled by Jesus himself. “As I have loved you, so you also should love another.” We see this tough love in the lives of saints and martyrs. We see it in ordinary, but holy, women and men who live and love daily – making small and large sacrifices for others.
Who is it challenging for me to love?
What is the reason for this inability to love?
What can I do to begin loving that person?
I would invite you to take time to read and ponder the words from the Gospel of John 13:31-33, 34-35.
What word or words caught your attention?
What in this passage comforted/challenged you?
How many times is the word “glory” mentioned? Do you see a reason for this repetition?
Further Questions and Reflections:
Jesus tenderly addresses his disciples with these beautiful words: “My children.” How do you envision Jesus addressing you?
“My children, I will be with you only a little while longer.” When have I felt that God is far from me? When have I felt that God is near?
In these tough polarizing times, how can I be a bridge to others?
Do I find it a challenge to love myself as I am? Why or why not? Identify the reason.
Deacon David
Deacon David Suley
St. Andrew Apostle Catholic Church
Silver Spring, Maryland
Published with Permission
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