Love as the Defining Mark of Discipleship

Love as the Defining Mark of Discipleship

Gospel Reflection: John 13:31-33a, 34-35

In today’s Gospel, we find ourselves in the Upper Room during the Last Supper. Judas has just left to betray Jesus, and now Jesus turns to the remaining disciples to offer words of profound importance. He begins by speaking of His glorification, a glory that will come through the suffering of the Cross—something the disciples still do not fully understand.

But it is what Jesus says next that resonates across centuries: “I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you also should love one another.” This is not simply a suggestion or a gentle encouragement—it is a commandment. And not just any love, but His love. A love that is self-giving, sacrificial, patient, merciful, and unconditional.

To love as Jesus loves is to go beyond mere kindness or tolerance. It means bearing the burdens of others, forgiving when it’s hard, and offering our lives in service to those in need. In a world that often promotes self-interest, Jesus calls us to a radical, other-centered way of living.

Moreover, Jesus declares that this kind of love will be the defining characteristic of His followers: “This is how all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” Not by our knowledge, not even by our worship—though those are important—but by our love.

This Gospel invites us to reflect on our daily lives: Do our actions reflect the love of Christ? Are we recognizable as His disciples by how we treat others, especially those who are difficult to love?

Key Takeaway:
To be a true disciple of Jesus means to love others as He has loved us—completely, sacrificially, and without conditions. Let us ask for the grace to live this commandment more deeply each day.