Love one another
In the Gospel reading of Friday of the Fifth Week of Easter, there is a phrase which really touched me. To his disciples Jesus tells them: This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you (John 15:12).
In the Greek language, the verb you love is ἀγαπᾶτε (agapate). Here, the Greek verb ἀγαπάω, to love, means I love, wish well to, take pleasure in, long for; denotes the love of reason, esteem. Imagine if Jesus is telling us to love one another he is also telling us to wish well to each other, to be joyful in the presence of each other, to long for each other, to love purposely and to esteem each other.
Hence, ἀγαπάω is characterized by its selflessness and commitment to the well-being of others, often without regard for personal gain or reciprocation. In the New Testament, ἀγαπάω is frequently used to describe the nature of God’s love. Take John 3:16, “For God so loved (ἀγαπάω) the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. This verse encapsulates the sacrificial and redemptive nature of divine love.
Jesus commands His followers to manifest this love in their relationships with others. In John 13:34, He instructs, “A new commandment I give you: Love (ἀγαπάω) one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another.” This commandment stresses the transformative power of ἀγαπάω, calling believers to reflect the love of Christ in their interactions.
Moreover, the Apostle Paul explains more the characteristics of ἀγαπάω in 1 Corinthians 13, often referred to as the “Love Chapter.” In this chapter, love is described as patient, kind, and enduring, among other attributes, highlighting its enduring and selfless nature.
ἀγαπάω is not just an emotion but also an active choice and commitment to seek the highest good of others. It is the love that binds the Christian community together and serves as a witness to the world of God’s love.
Lord Jesus, fill me with your transforming love, ἀγαπάω. Amen.
Fr Mario Attard OFM Cap
