LENTEN DEVOTION FOR THURSDAY, MARCH 20

Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. "For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you." ... "I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." (John 12:1b,15,34-35)

The night before he died Jesus gathered together with his disciples to give them an example washing their feet of what it meant to be in relationship with God. Further, he taught them what it meant to be disciples: to seek the welfare of all people. This is not dependent on one's feelings for another person and excludes no one.

Seeing the world in terms of "us" and "them" is therefore impossible for the Christian. Our task is to practice a commitment to the worldview that we are all children of God and must seek to serve others without judging their worth. Is there a price to be paid for this commitment? Yes, crucifixion. But on the plus side, one experiences eternal communion with God.

Dear Lord, our God, draw us into communion with you that we might claim our place as children of God who love one another, as you have loved us. Amen.

Ernest Krug