“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete”      John 15 : 9 - 11

Bible reading : John 15 : 9 - 17

Thought for the week

In our Gospel reading today Jesus uses the word love nine times. Yet each time He uses it with slightly different implications. Because it is about love that makes a difference.

Jesus is actually using the word Agape, a particular kind of love that is selfless, abiding, persevering, life – changing, empowering, even sacrificial.

This is the love the Father has for Jesus, and the love He has shown us.

So Jesus speaks of us remaining in His love. Also for us as Jesus’ disciples to love one another, not just imitating Jesus’ love, but having the same selfless and forgiving heart as Jesus. He speaks of laying down His life for us in His love. Also of us being fruitful by living in and sharing Jesus’ love. Finally He tells us this is His command. It is not an optional extra of discipleship and of being the church. ‘Love one another’.

So Jesus tells us His love is life – changing, empowering, affirming, persevering. His love is something that changes our relationships, our self – esteem, our communities, our world. It begins with us receiving His love. What an important message for today, and what amazing hope for our world!

Rev Paul

Prayer for this week

Risen Christ,

by the lakeside you

renewed your call to your disciples:

help your Church to obey your command

and draw the nations to the fire of your love,

to the glory of God the Father. Amen.