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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 4 – Masters)
Topic: The New Commandment: Love One Another (07/23/26)
Why did Jesus called it a new commandment to "love one another"? God had already told His people to "love your neighbor as yourself." So what was new about it? The answer is found in one small phrase that changes everything. Those five words raise the standard of love higher than it had ever been before.

Jesus said, "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another." (John 13:34 NIV)

Most of us naturally love those who are kind to us. We enjoy helping people who appreciate our efforts. But Jesus loved those who misunderstood Him, rejected Him, betrayed Him, and even crucified Him. He washed the feet of Judas, knowing Judas would soon betray Him. That is the kind of love He calls us to demonstrate.

This command is impossible to fulfill in our own strength. Human love has limits. It can grow weary, become impatient, and even keep score. But the love of Christ is different. It is patient when it would rather react. It forgives when it has every reason to hold a grudge. It serves without expecting anything in return.

The wonderful news is that Jesus never asks us to do something He will not empower us to do. Through His Holy Spirit, He produces His love in our hearts. As we remain close to Him, His love begins to overflow into our relationships with others. Jesus also tells us why this command matters so much.

"By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (John 13:35 NIV)

Notice that He did not say people would recognize His followers by their knowledge, their talents, or even their church attendance. The distinguishing mark of a Christian is love. That gives each of us an opportunity to examine our own hearts.

How do I respond when someone disappoints me? Am I quick to forgive? Do I speak with kindness, even when I disagree? Do I look for ways to serve rather than to be served? These questions can be uncomfortable, but they reveal whether Christ's love is shaping our lives.

The world is filled with division, anger, and selfishness. In the middle of that darkness, a believer who genuinely loves others shines like a light. Every act of patience, every word of encouragement, every quiet sacrifice reflects the heart of Jesus.

Loving one another does not mean overlooking sin or pretending everything is fine. Jesus always spoke the truth, but He spoke it with compassion. Real love seeks another person's highest good, even when it requires sacrifice.

As you go through today, ask the Lord to help you love as He loves. Someone around you may need forgiveness, encouragement, a listening ear, or simply an act of kindness. Your response could become a living testimony of Christ's presence in your life.

The new commandment is not merely to love; it is to love like Jesus. When His love becomes visible in us, the world catches a glimpse of Him.
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