Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – April 28, 2020
Love one another. John 13:34
Like many couples, my husband and I spent Easter together but away from our families. We connected with his side of the family through video chat—and did the same with mine.
But honestly, after both virtual gatherings we felt a little blue. Certainly, there was joy as we celebrated Christ’s resurrection. But this year, Easter just wasn’t the same. We longed to sit and talk and laugh and hug and share stories like we have always done on holidays.
Perhaps this is one of the biggest blessings that has come from the coronavirus . . . the reminder that people are precious. While being hunkered down at home away from family and friends, we’ve remembered how much we need one another.
Significant relationships in which love rules are close to God’s heart. They are so important, in fact, that while dying on the cross, Jesus expressed his desire that John and his mother, Mary, care for one another. He even referred to them as “son” and “mother” although they weren’t related.
Jesus also prayed that everyone who believes in Him would be one, just as He and his Father are one (John 17:20-21). And, there are 59 “one-another” verses in the New Testament in which we are commanded to forgive, love, live in harmony, accept one another, and treat one another with care.
But it always seems as if there is something pulling on our true need for togetherness, for connectedness and oneness, right? There are careers, the pursuit for purpose, stability, and significance. There are worries, anxieties, and stresses. Unfortunately, these lesser loves and worldly concerns often steal our time and dominate our affections.
Additionally, our prejudices and fears cause us to keep one another at an emotional distance when accepting one another regardless of race, nationality, or social standing would fill our hearts and delight the Lord too.
This time of social distancing and muted human interaction has pressed the preciousness of people into my heart. I’ve been reminded of the joys of hugs and holding, the fun of shared laughter, and the fullness that comes just from being in the presence of friends and family.
Perhaps this is something that God would like for all of us to learn anew. He cares about relationships, and He wants us to deeply care about them too, because He cares about people. And He made people for people as well as for Himself.
When this crisis has passed, may we never take one another for granted. God is love. God loves love. And God loves it when people love one another.
“…Have equal concern for each other” (I Corinthians 12:25).
Prayer
Lord, you have made us to love and be loved. You care that we care for one another. Please help us to remember how important relationships are when this time of crisis passes. Amen.
Application
Make a list of the people who are important to you and let them know how much they mean to you by calling them, video chatting with them, or sending them a heartfelt letter.
Related Reading
Galatians 5:13; Galatians 6:2; Ephesians 5:21
Here is a helpful resource during these days of grief, sorrow and uncertainty: A Little Book of Comfort
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