In a world where love is often defined by emotion, convenience, and self-interest, people are left confused about what true love really means.
Many express love only when it is easy, enjoyable, or beneficial. Yet Jesus gave His followers a clear and challenging command: “Love each other as I have loved you.” This command becomes our filter and foundation for every expression of love. It asks us not, “How do I feel?” but, “How did Jesus love?”
Jesus spoke these words to His disciples on the night before His crucifixion. Knowing that suffering and death were near, He did not speak about power or success.
Instead, He spoke about love. He reminded them that His entire ministry had been marked by compassion, forgiveness, humility, and sacrifice.
The early church took this command seriously, and their Christlike love became their strongest witness in a hostile world.
First, measure our love by the example of Christ.
John 15:12–13 says, “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
Jesus loved unconditionally. He served the needy, forgave sinners, welcomed the rejected, and sacrificed Himself on the cross. His love was not based on worthiness, popularity, or convenience. It was based on obedience to the Father and compassion for humanity.
When Jesus commands us to love as He loved, He calls us to love with humility, patience, and self-giving commitment.
Love becomes Christlike when it is guided by sacrifice, not self-interest.
Second, practice Christlike love in everyday life.
Ephesians 5:2 says, “Walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us.”
Christlike love is not limited to dramatic acts. It is practiced daily through kindness, patience, honesty, forgiveness, and service. It is shown in listening carefully, speaking gently, correcting with grace, and helping without seeking recognition.
Loving as Jesus loved means choosing faithfulness even when emotions change.
Let this command shape your daily relationships. At home, at work, in church, and in the community, choose to reflect Christ’s love. Ask God to help you love consistently, sincerely, and sacrificially.
Jesus did not leave us guessing about how to love. He gave us His life as our model and His command as our guide.
When we love as He loved, our relationships are transformed, our witness is strengthened, and God is glorified.
May Christ’s love always be the filter through which we express our own. | NWI
