Balaam answered, “I can say only what the LORD tells me.”
JOHN 13:34 (TCEB)
I’m going to leave you with a new law to live by: Love one another. You’ve seen how I love you. Love each other like that.
THE ESSENCE
When Jesus lays down the law, it's time to live accordingly.
DAILY FODDER
I wonder if we should read John 13:34 as somewhat tongue-in-cheek. Jesus said he was giving a new law or commandment. But it wasn't new to anyone who had spent any time around him. Perhaps it was new compared to how most people operated or new compared to the law of Moses. But it wasn't new in Jesus' world. He put it into practice before he said anything about it. Embrace his approach.
PRAYER
King Jesus, you have the right to issue new laws. I'm grateful that when you do so, your new laws aren't from a distant throne but from a room of friends. You've already shown us what you expect. Help me to love like you. I'm not always so good at that. But I know you are in the process of transforming me into your image. I'm eager to be a part of your love team. Amen.
Our Father in Heaven,
we hold your name in the highest regard.
Please come and establish your reign here on earth
so that everything that happens here will align
with what is happening in heaven.
and we’ll forgive those who have wronged us.
Shield us from the trials and temptations that come our way.
Lastly, we pray that you will protect us from all forms of evil. Amen.
