At Evensong lead by the Rev Edward Johnsen, the focus was on

Acts 11:1–18 and John 13 31-35

this was a wonderful discussion on love …

Acts 11 …

This passage recounts Peter explaining his vision of the clean and unclean animals and how God directed him to share the gospel with Gentiles. The emphasis is on God’s inclusive love. Peter’s realisation that “God has granted repentance that leads to life even to the Gentiles” (v. 18) reveals love as boundary-breaking, welcoming all people into God’s grace. Love in this context means seeing others as God sees them, beyond cultural or societal divisions, and embracing them with openness and acceptance.

John 13:31–35

In this passage, Jesus commands His disciples to love one another as He has loved them. This is a love characterised by humility, sacrifice, and selflessness, as shown by Jesus washing His disciples’ feet earlier in the chapter and foreshadowing His ultimate sacrifice on the cross. The call to love one another is not just an ideal but the defining mark of discipleship: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (v. 35).

Combined Reflection on Love

These passages highlight two dimensions of love: inclusive love (Acts 11) and sacrificial, Christlike love (John 13). Together, they show that love transcends barriers, seeks the good of others without self-interest, and is the identifying trait of a follower of Jesus. To love as God loves is to extend compassion and kindness freely, building a community where all are valued and nurtured.

It was a beautiful service.

Illustration: Christ Washing the Disciples' Feet (public domain)