“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my Disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35
Lord Jesus, remembering the work of Martin Luther King Jr. ignites our longings for the Day of your return, and everything that comes with that Day. It will begin an eternity of perfect everything, but especially, perfect relationships. And in the current climate of divisiveness and hatred, vitriol and factionalism, our cry is, “How long, O Lord?”
Finally, and fully, we’ll love each other the way you love us, Jesus. Every one of our relationships will be whole, beautiful, and joyful—the overflow of living in intimate relationship with you, our Father, and God the Holy Spirit.
All racism, prejudice and tribalism will be eradicated—replaced with love, honor, and the richest community imaginable. There won’t be any misunderstandings, misrepresentations, or manipulations. There won’t be any insiders or outsiders; no “pecking order” or ordering one another around; no bombast, bravado, or braggadocio.
We’ll never fail or hurt one another again. We’ll never have to apologize, forgive and reconcile about anything. We’ll never abuse or be used by anyone; for we’ll serve one another in love with great gladness. No more wars, or even rumors of war. No more harm or harming, in any form. The United Nations won’t be a building, but a reality.
Jesus, finally, your church—your beloved Bride, will love the way you love us. No more spats or splits, no more worship wars or wagging tongues, no more denominational petulance or theological arrogance, no more church shopping or church hopping; no more bickering, backbiting or bitterness. Yes, yes, yes!
Until then, Jesus, bring the power of the gospel to bear in extraordinary ways in our relationships. Grant us greater grief and repentance over the ways we love so poorly—in thought, word, and deed. Stun us again and again and again with how much you love us. There is no other way we’ll change. So very Amen, we pray, with conviction and hope, in your grace-full name.
