Love One Another
John 13:34–35

A new year dawns, and with it we begin a fresh series in these Pastor’s Pen reflections. In 2026 we’ll be taking time to consider the New Testament’s “one another” commands: those simple yet searching instructions God has given for life together in Christ. They remind us that Christianity is not a solo venture. It is a shared pilgrimage where our love for Christ is proven in our love for his people.

We begin where our Lord began: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:34-35).

Notice how Jesus raises the bar. The measure is no longer “love your neighbour as yourself” but “love one another as I have loved you.” His cross-shaped love is to become the pattern and power of ours. Such love is patient, costly, and undeserved. It does not calculate worthiness. It lays down its life.

History gives us vivid glimpses of this kind of love. In April 1917, Canadian soldiers pressed forward at Vimy Ridge, one of the defining battles of our nation. The accounts tell of men braving fire to pull wounded comrades from shell holes, refusing to leave them behind. Their courage and sacrifice are remembered as brotherhood under fire. If men could show such devotion in the cause of earthly freedom, how much more should Christians display it in the cause of Christ’s kingdom?

The call of Jesus is not to sentiment but to sacrifice. Love will mean bearing with the weak, forgiving offenses, sharing resources, and seeking the good of others before self. In a world quick to divide, love is our apologetic: “By this all people will know that you are my disciples.”

So as we step into 2026, let’s take this command to heart. Pray for opportunities this week to show Christ-like love, perhaps to someone in our church family who is hurting, or to a neighbour who least expects it. The cross of Christ is our pattern, and the Spirit of Christ is our power.

“Love is the badge of our discipleship. Without it we may hide our profession, but with it the world cannot help but take notice.” - Charles Spurgeon

Lord, help us to begin this year with your love shaping our words and deeds. May others see in us not a cold religion but the living reality of your Son, who loved us and gave himself for us.