Reflecting on Jesus’ Commandment to Love One Another🙌📚
by Jennifer Greene-Sullivan
How far are we willing to go to show love to our brothers and sisters in Christ? Jesus said, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). This verse challenges me deeply because it reveals the sacrificial love we are called to embody. It’s not a casual suggestion—it’s a divine expectation. Jesus, in His love for us, called us friends because we know the work of the Kingdom and share an intimate relationship with Him. That relationship is beyond precious—it’s life-changing.
Yesterday, Liam went on a field trip to the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park with his second-grade class. Unfortunately, neither Chris nor I could attend, so I called in reinforcements. My friend Emily, who is not only an amazing mom but also a fantastic photographer, stepped in to look after Liam. Her willingness to help reminded me of Galatians 6:2: “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” She bore my burden that day, and she did it with grace and kindness.
As I scrolled through the pictures Emily sent me, I saw such beautiful moments of brotherly love captured on her phone. Liam and his best friend Luke walked side by side, arms draped over each other’s shoulders. Their carefree connection was a simple yet profound reminder of the kind of love Jesus spoke of: a love that is genuine, selfless, and unashamed. “Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another” (Romans 12:9-10). These young boys, in their innocence, are already living out this scripture.
Their bond caused me to pause and reflect: How do I demonstrate this kind of love to my friends and fellow believers? Do I show the same care and affection for those who may be harder to love? Matthew 22:39 commands us to “love thy neighbor as thyself.” Yet, how often do I let my preferences, judgments, or pride get in the way of fully living out this commandment?
The pure, unguarded love I witnessed in Liam and Luke’s friendship also reminded me of Hebrews 13:1: “Let brotherly love continue.” As adults, we often complicate this love with grudges, differences, and insecurities. But these children, in their simplicity, reveal what it means to love without conditions—to love as Christ loves us.
I am so grateful to Emily for stepping in to be there for Liam and capturing these moments. It showed me that brotherly love isn’t just about grand gestures but also the small, everyday acts of kindness and support. It’s in the simple ways we carry each other’s burdens, encourage one another, and remain present in each other’s lives.
The challenge for me—and for all of us—is to let brotherly love be a reflection of the love Jesus has for us. His love wasn’t passive; it was active, sacrificial, and intentional. Let’s take these moments of inspiration and allow them to shape how we treat our brothers, sisters, and neighbors.
Reflection
How can we embody brotherly love in our daily lives? Are there areas where we can be more intentional in demonstrating care and support? The love Jesus calls us to isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it. He equips us with His Spirit to love even when it’s hard. Let’s strive to be vessels of His love, pointing others to the truth of the Gospel through our actions.
A Prayer for Brotherly Love
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the perfect example of love You’ve given us in Jesus. Help me to live out that love in my relationships with others. Teach me to bear the burdens of my brothers and sisters, to love without condition, and to seek unity in Your Spirit. Lord, may my life reflect Your heart, and may my love point others to You. Thank You for the gift of friendship and fellowship in the body of Christ. May we always honor You by how we love one another. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Don’t forget to ponder this question: What are we truly willing to do for our friends–our brothers and sisters? (John 15:13)
Brotherly love in its purest form đź’™ Watching these little ones care for each other is a beautiful reminder of how we are called to love one another. Jesus said, “This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you” (John 15:12). May we all strive to live with such open hearts and genuine kindness.
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