This is what characterizes followers of Christ.

A New Commandment

31 When he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in him. 32 If God is glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself, and glorify him at once. 33 Little children,yet a little while I am with you. You will seek me, and just as I said to the Jews, so now I also say to you, ‘Where I am going you cannot come.’ 34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:31-35, ESV)

Today is Maundy Thursday, traditionally the day of the Last Supper. It’s called “Maundy” because the word maundy means commandment, signifying when Jesus gave us the “new” commandment to love one another as he loves us. This is not pink hearts and valentines folks. This is the total giving of ourselves for the other, even those who despise us. This is what characterizes followers of Christ.