“I am writing to remind you, dear friends, that we should love one another. This is not a new commandment, but one we have had from the beginning.”-2 John 1:5
Reminders are essential in our lives. Have you noticed this? For example, we write down scheduled meetings on our calendars to remind ourselves when, where, and with whom we are meeting. We jot notes so we don’t forget important details. A variety of signs are posted everywhere to remind us what the speed limit is, what the rules are, what the directions are for how to do something, and so on. As Christians, we memorize Scripture so we will be reminded of the truth. Reminders are vital!
No reminder is more valuable than the one in 2 John 1:5. Let’s reread the passage which says, "I am writing to remind you, dear friends, that we should love one another. This is not a new commandment, but one we have had from the beginning.” The Lord led John to write this reminder to Christians in the early church, and ultimately for all Christians for all time. The reminder is obvious: God has called us to love one another! God reiterated this truth through Peter as well. Inspired by God, Peter was compelled to write, “Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins" (1 Peter 4:8). The Apostle Paul was also led by the Lord to emphasize love in 1 Corinthians 16:14, saying, “And do everything with love.” Without a doubt, it's abundantly clear that if there is anything worthy of a reminder, it is this — We are called to love as we are loved! In fact, Jesus Himself said, "So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other" (John 13:34).
Hopefully we get the point which is so heavily emphasized by God in the Bible: It is paramount that we remember to love and why we are to do so! 1 John 4:19 summarizes it so powerfully, saying, "We love because He first loved us.” This is why we love! How we love includes being patient with one another, showing kindness with our words and ways, not being proud, not being rude, not demanding our own way, not keeping a record of wrongs, never giving up on love…I would encourage you to read all of 1 Corinthians 13 for guidance and clarity on what love really looks like and why it’s so crucial.
Today is a good day to recall our call to love! Every day is the right time to remember the greatest thing there is to remember: Let's love one another! This honors God and is so helpful to all.
Cheer up, friends!
-Scott