Mass prep – 3 points / 30 seconds: Why is Jesus’ commandment unique?

The Gospel for this Sunday is John 10:27-30

1 The novelty of Jesus' commandment

Willingness to do good for others is embedded in human nature and in every religion. But Jesus says that His commandment to love is new. So what is unique about Jesus' commandment? 

2 Key words

I give you a new commandment: love one another.

As I have loved you, so you also should love one another.

Jesus wants, not only for us to love one another, but for that love to be like His love. This is the "love of the Most." The most beautiful, the best - and it is the most important thing in life.

In the original Greek of the gospel, the word "agapao" is used here, which means the highest degree of love, that is willing to give its life for another person and forgive everything. Just like Jesus. He gave his life for each of us and from the cross he forgave. There is no love without forgiveness - this is stressed by people who have lived many years in marriage and are happy. 

All will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. 

Jesus' love is practical. It has its eyes open to the reality around it; it sees the needs of its neighbors and recognizes the good that comes from other people. At this time, a particular expression of mutual love has become welcoming and helping refugees who are fleeing war and famine. Pope Francis' message for this year's World Migrant and Refugee Day includes a moving prayer:  

"Lord, make us builders of your Kingdom,

together with migrants and refugees

and with all who dwell on the peripheries.

Lord, let us learn how beautiful it is

to live together as brothers and sisters. Amen."

3 Today

Jesus invites us to love one another. Who gives me love in my daily life? For whose love am I especially grateful? Do I notice the love of God in my life? Who is waiting for my love? We can pray so that our love will be like Jesus'.