“Ow!” Dad squealed. My mother attempted to clean up her husband in the small restroom. My father had had dementia for five years and lost control of his bodily functions in the last two years of his life. Stress comes in different forms. Caregiving is not for the faint of heart. Mom displayed her love for Dad not only in words but consistently cared for him even in the messy times. She showed humility and grace, which came from the Holy Spirit.
When Jesus said to love each other as he had loved us, he hadn’t yet gone to the cross and laid down his life for us. He had just finished washing the disciples’ feet. This was a job usually done by slaves. None of the disciples had chosen to wash the others’ feet. They were too busy arguing over which of them was the greatest (Luke 22:24). Jesus showed us all that he is the greatest servant leader.
The word for love in today’s verse is agape in Greek. This word means unconditional love, not based on feelings. What about us? Do we say we love people? Of course. But then when there is an opportunity to serve that person, do we do it? Willingly? Or do we perform the service grudgingly? Jesus said that showing true love would prove to the unbelievers that we are really following him.
Dear Lord, please help me to show true love practically to those around me.
Throughout this day: consider your relationships. Are you loving family, friends or co-workers unconditionally or only when and how it suits you?
Photo Credit: Hoi An and Da Nang Photographer on Unsplash