Jesus has a long conversation with his disciples on the evening before he is arrested. We read part of that conversation (called the “Farewell Discourse”) this week. There is so much Jesus wants to tell his followers. He’s preparing them for his coming arrest, trial, and death, as well as his resurrection and ascension. In this week’s verses, Jesus reminds the followers of his deep commitment to them. He promises to send “another Advocate” to accompany and support them once he is gone. He reassures them that they are connected to “the Father,” the Creator, the source of all life – these are important and lasting connections.
Jesus reminds his followers “If you love me, keep my commandments.” Over and over again, Jesus has been teaching the people following him to love one another. In his journeys across the region, through healings and parables and sermons, Jesus has shown his disciples and the crowds that love for each other is at the core of everything. Jesus invites/commands/instructs them and us to love the people who surround us, including people who seem inconsequential and people we don’t like.
It’s that simple . . . and incredibly challenging. Jesus knows that we struggle to love each other (humans, after all are both delightful and infuriating), so he promises to send help once he has gone. We definitely need the presence of the spirit to help us find the patience and resolve to love each other. Fortunately, God’s love and commitment to us is deeper and more enduring than we can comprehend. Though you and I sometimes struggle to just tolerate people who irritate us, God manages to love us unconditionally, through everything. God knows us well. God provides resources to help us love like we are loved, forgives us when we fall short, and then invites us to try again each day.
Peace,