Scripture Reading
John 13:34-35
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.
Reflection
The defining mark of the Christian community is not doctrine correctly held or rituals properly performed — it is love for one another. And the standard is breathtaking: 'just as I have loved you.' Jesus loved his disciples knowing they would fail him, flee him, and deny him. This love is not earned; it is given. The world is watching the church to see if this love is real. Let it be real — in your home, your congregation, your neighborhood.
Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father,
You remain constant, in a world of such bewildering hatred and confusing suffering. You are a rock on which we stand, your word is a fortress for our souls and your promises are a lamp to guide our feet.
We call and you are there, omnipresent and Almighty, Father hearted and merciful. So we call upon you today as our friend has this surgery. Protect and keep him (her) within your heavenly arms. Watch over every detail of the surgeons work, and bring them safely through this time into your streams of recovery and restoration.
Amen.
You remain constant, in a world of such bewildering hatred and confusing suffering. You are a rock on which we stand, your word is a fortress for our souls and your promises are a lamp to guide our feet.
We call and you are there, omnipresent and Almighty, Father hearted and merciful. So we call upon you today as our friend has this surgery. Protect and keep him (her) within your heavenly arms. Watch over every detail of the surgeons work, and bring them safely through this time into your streams of recovery and restoration.
Amen.
Amen.