I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.  John 13 : 34

Thought for this week

It seems hugely significant that Jesus speaks of love immediately after Judas has gone from the upper room to betray Him. Jesus knows this is the significant time, “Now the Son of Man has been glorified”. Jesus’ reaction is not condemnation or shock, or retribution or even judgement. Instead it is to declare that the hope won through Cross and healing for the world has begun.

Jesus is bringing His Kingdom, and a whole new relationship with God, a whole new way of life in God’s faithfulness and forgiveness.

So Jesus announces the new beginning. And a Kingdom that begins with all those who will follow, who will believe in Him, in our age and every age. And the key to this Kingdom being built and growing is, “Love one another”.

This is not love in a way that benefits us, or wins us friends. It is not love that is for a time and then retreats. It is not love for certain people or some circumstances.

Who do you need to show Jesus’ love to today? Maybe a stranger. Maybe to someone who has hurt you. Maybe to someone in a different part of the world. Love that is love in its purest, sacrificial form. The love Jesus has for us. This is how we are to love one another. 

Rev.  Paul

Prayers for this week

Almighty God, who through your only-begotten Son Jesus Christ have overcome death and opened to us the gate of everlasting life: grant that, as by your grace going before us you put into our minds good desires, so by your continual help we may bring them to good effect; through Jesus Christ our risen Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen

Risen Christ, your wounds declare your love for the world and the wonder of your risen life: give us compassion and courage to risk ourselves for those we serve, to the glory of God the Father. Amen

Readings this week

Acts 11 : 1 - 18

Revelation 21 : 1 - 6

John 13 : 31 - 35

Our Prayers

For the work of Christian Aid

To give thanks for peace between Pakistan and India

For our ministry to schools