Love: The Simplest Command We Keep Getting Wrong

Today, let’s consider a few verses from John 13 that carry a weight far beyond their simplicity. In verse 34, Jesus says,

I give you a new commandment, love one another.

At first glance, this seems somewhat redundant. Hasn’t Jesus been conveying this all along? His parables, his compassion for the marginalised, his healing touch—all resonate with the same theme: love. 

So why label it a new commandment? And why frame it as a command? This shift is subtle yet seismic. Until now, love has been demonstrated, encouraged, and woven into every aspect of Jesus' ministry

However, here, Jesus crystallises it: loving one another isn't merely a suggestion or an inspiring idea to contemplate; it’s a command. 

This alters everything.

The Weight of the Moment

Consider the setting. Judas has just left the room, and the wheels of betrayal are already in motion. Jesus knows his time is short. This isn’t a casual dinner conversation; it’s his last opportunity to leave an indelible mark on his disciples' hearts.

Picture that room: softly illuminated, with traces of the Passover meal left behind, as a circle of friends wrestles with confusion and dread. Jesus, keenly conscious of the impending turmoil, delivers a message that encapsulates the core of his life and teachings in a single, profound command.

Love one another.

A New Testament scholar once said, "This new command is simple enough for a toddler to memorise and profound enough to challenge the most mature believers." 

That hits home, doesn’t it? How often do we, seasoned in our faith, stumble over this very thing?

A Mirror to Our Hearts

When I read these words, I find myself pausing to ask: Am I truly living this out? Do my words and actions genuinely reflect this command? At times, the answer is rather uncomfortable.

Fear, anxiety, and the need for control can lead us to withdraw inwardly. We concentrate on our requirements, our comfort, and our security. 

At other times, frustration bubbles over, causing sharp words to spill out. It's not merely a personal struggle; it's a community issue as well. Churches can easily fall into this trap, circling the wagons when confronted with challenges, focusing inwards rather than outwards.

But that’s not the Jesus way.

Jesus didn’t say, “They will recognise that you are my disciples by your theology, your church attendance, or your moral checklist.” He said, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35)

It’s not about perfection; it’s about authenticity. When we love—genuinely, sacrificially, and consistently—it stands out. It defies expectations. It’s the kind of love that transcends boundaries, breaks down walls, and speaks louder than any sermon.

When Love Feels Hard

Let’s be honest: loving others isn’t always easy. It’s not merely about warm feelings or kind gestures. 

At times, love manifests as patience when you're frustrated, forgiveness when you've been hurt, or compassion when you'd prefer to turn away.

I think of times when I’ve fallen short—holding back a kind word, missing an opportunity to help, speaking out of anger rather than grace.

But the goal isn't to wallow in guilt. The goal is to recalibrate, to return to that simple, profound command: Love one another as I have loved you.

I’m reminded of a trip to London, where we saw The Phantom of the Opera. There is a song titled “All I Ask of You,” a haunting duet in which the characters plead, “Love me, that’s all I ask of you.”

Isn’t that the essence of Jesus’ command? 

He says to love me and to love one another in the same manner. It’s both an invitation and a mandate. 

Not out of obligation, but from the abundance of the love we have received from him.

The Daily Challenge

So, how are we doing with this? Not just in grand gestures but in everyday moments:

• The way we speak to our family when we're tired.

• The patience we show in traffic or long lines.

• The grace we extend when someone disappoints us.

• The courage to reach out when someone feels forgotten.

Love is not merely a feeling; it is a practice. It resides in the small choices that accumulate into a life that mirrors Jesus.

Jesus’ words in John 13 are not merely ancient instructions; they are a living call. In a world characterised by division, fear, and self-interest, loving one another is radical. It is the mark of a true disciple.

So, today, let us ask ourselves: How am I loving? Not perfectly, but with intention. Because in the end, that’s how the world will know whom we follow.

Jesus, You gave us a new commandment: to love one another as You have loved us.Teach us to love with open hearts and willing hands. When fear and anxiety make us retreat inward,Draw us out of ourselves to see the needs of others. When frustration and anger rise within us,Fill us with patience, grace, and gentle words. When we are tempted to choose comfort over compassion,grant us the courage to reach beyond our circles and love boldly.

For the times we've missed opportunities to show kindness,Forgive us, Lord, and renew our hearts to try again. Your love crosses boundaries, breaks down walls, and speaks louder than words.Let my life reflect that same love so the world may know we are Your disciples.

Not through grand gestures alone, but in small, daily choices—May we love as You have loved us. Jesus, You ask only this: Love Me and love one another.Help us live this command with joy, sincerity, and faithfulness. Amen.