In this season of spring renewal, the liturgy offers us a promise of hope: everything can become new — not through spectacular outward change, but through a transformative love, the one Jesus revealed to us. This love, lived “as he loved,” is the key to a renewed world, a revitalized Church, and a faith embodied in daily life.
“I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you also should love one another.” (John 13:34)
A Dream of Newness: The Hope for a Transformed World
In the Book of Revelation, Saint John shares a powerful vision: “a new heaven and a new earth” (Rev 21:1). This promise is born in a time of crisis: the early Christian communities, under persecution, seek meaning in their faith within a hostile world.
This message is not escapism nor naïve utopia. It is a profession of hope, an act of faith in God’s power to renew the world, even in the midst of trial.
The Commandment of Love: A Response to the Desire for Newness
The Gospel of John does not proclaim political revolution or social reform. It offers an inner path: to love “as Jesus has loved us.” The novelty is not in the idea of loving, but in the manner: a love that comes from God, that washes feet, gives life, and sees others with the eyes of the Father.
In this way, disciples are recognized — not by doctrines or eloquent words, but by their capacity to love authentically. Love becomes the visible sign of the presence of the Risen One.
A Church that Loves, a World that Hopes
Our world, wounded by violence, indifference, and social or spiritual division, thirsts for true love. The Church itself, amid ongoing challenges, is also called to be renewed by love.
Through this commandment, Jesus entrusts us with the mission to be signs of a new world, builders of a Kingdom where justice and peace embrace all humanity.
Prayer of the Day
Lord Jesus,
you are the living Love of the Father,
renew our hearts with your presence.
Make us peacemakers,
witnesses of your love in this world.
Teach us to love, to serve,
and to build a new world in your image.
Amen.
Biblical References
- Acts 14:21b–27
- Revelation 21:1–5a
- John 13:31–33a.34–35
Gospel According to Saint John
During the Last Supper Jesus shared with his disciples,
when Judas had left the upper room, Jesus said:
“Now is the Son of Man glorified,
and God is glorified in him.
If God is glorified in him,
God will also glorify him in himself,
and he will glorify him at once.
Little children,
I will be with you only a little while longer.
I give you a new commandment:
love one another.
As I have loved you,
so you also should love one another.
This is how all will know that you are my disciples,
if you have love for one another.”
Read the daily readings on Vatican News – May 18, 2025.
For Reflection
- Where do I feel the need for renewal in my life?
- Do I live out love “as Jesus has loved me”?
- Am I a witness of credible love in my community?
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