What is Love? Love is a Verb.

This morning the pastor spoke on John 13:34-35.

Right now, it feels like the most important scripture I have ever read. There have been moments when I considered other verses the most important ones, and I think they were for the season of life I was experiencing.

Loving one another as we worship, pray, and gather is easy. We are together in one space, all doing the same things at the same time. Singing. Communion. Sermon. Sharing a meal. Prayer.

But what about all those other times, when we are in separate spaces doing separate things in our separate lives? In our jobs, recreation, and homes, do we still love one another well?

I think when Jesus was speaking about this, he didn’t just mean during our time together.

The scripture says, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Jesus was speaking to the disciples after he washed their feet. He washed their feet to show them how to serve one another, so they could serve others. He knew his time was ending on earth, and he was trying to teach them the most important things so that once he was gone, they could continue his ministry.

He also speaks these words to us, as the church. Specifically, as independent churches all around the world. While we all have different traditions and ways we do things, one thing is abundantly clear- we are all commanded to love one another.

Love is a verb. We are told by Christ in scripture to “do” it. It requires action and intention. Outside of the things we do together listed above, how do we love one another when we are so separate?

I see the most love in the ways people are intentional with others. A kind note when they are struggling. A phone call when there is a prayer request on someone’s behalf. A simple response to an email or a text message during times of uncertainty or struggle. Simply reaching out when normal, mundane things of life are occurring. Hearing from someone that they are praying or just checking in is priceless. A simple message of support goes a long way for someone who feels left alone.

Love is part of obedience. It means never leaving someone behind, stranded, or alone. It means holding one another up when that might be the only way they can continue to stand. It might mean sacrificing time, resources, or plans.

It also means being a reflection of light, to fight off the darkness and shadows that we so often find ourselves struggling within. It means being united in the presence of Jesus whether we are together sharing a space or separate.

Ultimately it means unwavering and unconditional support for one another regardless of personality or opinion, simply because our Creator commanded us to.

Love is a verb.

XOXO