Those who love Me obey My words.

My dear Friends in Christ,

“Those who love Me obey My words, and My word is to love one another as I have loved you,” Jesus says. “What’s more, the Father will love you who love and obey Me, and the Father and I will make our home with you. But the converse of this is also true — if you don’t love me, you won’t keep my words, and this isn’t just me talking — this word comes straight from the Father.” Christ reveals himself to his own because they are looking for Him. They can recognize the Father in him. And that recognition did not come any more easily for those first disciples than it does for us. But we have it on good authority — straight from God the Father — that if we don’t love Jesus, we won’t obey His commandment to love one each other. Why is Jesus making such a big deal out of this? Jesus’ death is imminent but His concern is for the disciples rather than himself. He reassures them that they will not be alone, and promises them peace. He offers hope not only to His immediate disciples but also to all who love Him and keep His word. The Holy Spirit will be the Advocate who comes alongside us, walks with us through the difficult times, and stays beside us without getting in our way or pushing from behind. The Spirit doesn’t force us into one direction or another, but guides gently while walking next to us, standing up for us, keeping us company, giving us comfort and leading us where we need to go.

May God bless you all,

Father John