Love One Another

That is the key: “Just as I have loved you.” How does Jesus love? The Gospels share many examples. Here are three main ways:

Openness: Jesus is always open to anyone who approaches. There are no stories of Jesus ever turning anyone away.

Acceptance: Jesus saw some aspect of good in everyone. Consider the variety of company he kept. He also accepted the negative parts.

Forgiveness: Jesus healed many people and told them their sins were forgiven. Forgiveness is healing.

Openness, acceptance and forgiveness are aspects of love that come from one’s soul. Unfortunately, many of us love through our ego, through conditions, control and fear (a sense of restriction). Jesus loves us through his soul and unconditionally. One way to develop unconditional love in your soul is to take a moment and sit in a field of love. Bring to mind the love of Christ, someone you love, or a moment in time where you felt peace during an activity. Feel this love surrounding you and know you are well-loved by God.

Dear God, please open my heart to feel your love. Surround me with your love and grace. Help me to love others as you love me. Amen. — BLR