JOHN 13:1

Now before the Feast of the Passover, Jesus knowing that His hour had come that He would depart out of this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.

TO PONDER:

It never ceases to amaze me how often we see athletes celebrate too early and ease up before they cross the finishing line. We saw it again at the Commonwealth Games where Jamaican runner Nigel Ellis eased up and failed to duck his head forward, thinking he was through to the finals, only to have Aussie sprinter Jake Doran pip him at the post. Or Carlton who panicked with 60 secs to go and lost a match to Melbourne that would have seen them play finals football for the first time in 9 years.

It's important that we finish well and finish strong. Jesus shows his disciples this in the reading today. "He loved them to the end". What a striking comment. It could mean "end" in sense of conclusion or termination, or "end" in sense of his goal, aim, or fulfilment. The Gospel writer probably intends both meanings. Jesus loved his disciples to the absolute end of his earthly life and ministry among them. He also loved them completely and fully, without reservation or condition. That was the purpose of his mission.

As disciples of Jesus, that also is our calling. Later on Jesus says, "Do as I have done to you." How will we love the people around us today? Not pulling up short thinking we are nearly home, but completely and fully as a witness to the love Jesus has for us. Finish strong. Love boldly and fully today in everything that you do.

PRAYER:

Lord Jesus, thank you for loving me completely and fully even to the cross and grave and back. Strengthen me with your love today, that my love for others may be complete in you and go the full distance. Amen.

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