34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35
Today I sat down with someone and shared with them about a challenging situation I was facing. I shared all the obstacles that were making me feel sabotaged. While I told them I was committed to conquering the challenge it still was overwhelming. I was surprised that she was able to see solutions I hadn’t thought about.
I knew I would feel better by sharing but I had no idea the new light that would shine on my challenges would be so bright. My problems didn’t go away, but my burden was so much lighter.
In John 13 Jesus encourages us to love one another like He loves us. Then the text really gets my attention with this statement: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Not if you are an expert at explaining bible prophecy. Not if you have eaten so many veggies and fruits that your burps don’t smell(lol). Not if you are rich, or intelligent, or famous, our powerful. If you love one another. When we give each other what Jesus gives us we demonstrate that we are His followers. I received “Jesus love” today from someone who was willing to listen to me and give caring advice.
What would it be like if you spent a lot of time with a group of people that love each other the way that Jesus loves? Wouldn’t that be an amazing experience? Wouldn’t that environment be a place that everyone would want to join?
I believe that’s where our focus should be. Then evangelism won’t be an issue. Can you pass the disciple test?
