John 13:31-35
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.
Read John 13:31-35 paying close attention to Jesus’ statements about the glory of God.
Jesus is just hours away from being tortured, ridiculed and executed. This horror will not be witnessed passively by a divine being but will be fully experienced by a fully human Jesus – the author and perfecter of our faith. As he faces the darkest day of his earthly life, Jesus makes a stunning statement of faith: Glory is just on the other side of suffering. God will give back the glory Jesus laid aside when he came to earth, and God will give Jesus that glory the moment his earthly mission is fulfilled.
Recall for a moment a time when you faced intense suffering mentally, physically or emotionally. How did Jesus help you through that experience? How was he the author of your faith during that time? Did you experience God’s glory in a new or different way after that experience? Talk with Jesus about this.
Read John 13:31-15 again focusing on Jesus’ new commandment.
Jesus is tenderly telling his closest followers that he is about to leave them. These are his final instructions, and the summation of all he has taught them.
Self-giving love is the essence of Jesus’ life and teaching. Those who belong to him are to love each other as he loves, and their love for each other will show the world that they are his followers.
Stop to think about Jesus’ love as described in John’s Gospel. In what ways did Jesus love his followers? As thoughts come, share them with Jesus. You can use the ideas below as a starting point if you wish:
• He revealed the Good News of God’s kingdom to them
• He told them the truth always, even when it was a hard truth
• He called them to be with him and to share his earthly life and ministry
• He taught them and showed them how to live lives of meaning and purpose
Think now about your own circle of influence. How are you seeking to love the people God has put in your life?
Spend some time talking to Jesus about this, and if at any point you sense Jesus calling you to an action of some kind, write it down and plan to follow through.
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