In John 13:34-35, Jesus gives his disciples a ‘new commandment.” In so doing, he lays the foundation for the formation of a group of people unique in human history. Jesus creates a group identified by one thing: love. Other groups may identify themselves by skin color, by uniform, by shared interests, by adherence to a code of behavior, by alma mater, etc. But the church is unique. For the first and only time in history, Jesus creates a group whose identifying factor is love. Followers of Christ are recognized by their love for each other. A Happy New You is one full of love.

 

Besides discussing the new commandment, we suggest 10 things we can do after reflecting on this week of devotionals. This list includes listening to the full song, “Make me a servant” by the Maranatha Singers and watching “The Servant Song” on YouTube. We also suggest that listeners review the top ten list from Tuesday which writing to seniors through Letters Against Isolation, giving career advice through CareerVillage.org, and signing up to be a virtual tutor with UPchieve.

 

Additional scriptures referenced include Genesis 1:27; Deuteronomy 6:24; Matthew 5:21–38, 43-45; Matthew 9:9; John 13:14–15; 1 Corinthians 13:4–7; and Luke 9:23.