Our scripture this morning is Leviticus 19:18 (NET).
You must not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the children of your people, but you must love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord.
Jesus tells us in John 13:34 “I give you a new commandment – to love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” While Jesus is always sincere in His teaching, it is a little ironic that He says a “new” commandment. God told His children this during their desert experience. Knowing scripture as many of His followers did, this statement would resonate with them as to how poorly we have done following this instruction. Jesus says it might as well be a new commandment! We must ask forgiveness for our lack of love and pray for strength to love everyone better.
Gracious God, in Your mercy You sent Your Son to save us. Help us to love one another as You first loved us. Amen.
