Being Easter People, Dear Children of God

The echoes of "He is risen!" still resonate in our hearts, a vibrant reminder of the earth-shattering event that redefined history and our existence. But being Easter people isn't just about celebrating a past miracle; it's about living in the continuous light and transformative power of that resurrection. As we navigate the days and weeks following Easter Sunday, we are called to embody the very essence of what it means to be children of God, a call beautifully illuminated in the words of Jesus in John 13:31-35.
​
This passage unfolds in the shadow of betrayal, just as Judas departs to set the events leading to the cross in motion. Yet, amidst this darkness, Jesus speaks not of despair, but of glory. "The time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory, and God will be glorified because of him." It's a paradoxical glory, achieved not through earthly power or dominion, but through selfless sacrifice and ultimate love. This glory isn't confined to Jesus alone; it's a glory that reflects back to God and, as verse 32 suggests, is reciprocated.

Then comes a tender address: "Dear children, I will be with you only a little longer." These words, spoken with the weight of impending separation, underscore the preciousness of Jesus's time with his disciples – and by extension, with us. He knew the void his absence would create, the longing they would feel. And in that awareness, he imparts a crucial instruction, a new commandment that would become the very hallmark of his followers. "So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other." This isn't a suggestion or a gentle piece of advice; it's a command, a directive as vital as any other. But what makes it "new"? It's the standard and the motivation: "Just as I have loved you." Jesus' love was radical, selfless, and unwavering. It was a love that embraced the flawed, the outcast, and the betrayer. It was a love that ultimately led him to the cross. This is the benchmark for our love. It's not enough to offer polite affection or conditional kindness. We are called to a love that mirrors the love of Christ – a love that is sacrificial, forgiving, and actively seeks the well-being of others, even when it's difficult or uncomfortable. This love transcends personal preferences, social barriers, and even perceived worthiness.

The profound impact of this commandment is revealed in the subsequent verse: "Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples." Our love for each other is visible evidence of our connection to Christ. It's not eloquent sermons or theological debates that will ultimately convince the world of the truth of the Gospel, but the tangible expression of Christ's love through his followers. Being Easter people means more than just believing in the resurrection. It means allowing the resurrected Christ to live and love through us. It means embracing this "new" commandment with our whole being, striving to love others as Christ loved us. This isn't always easy. We live in a world characterized by division, judgment, and self-interest. But as children of God, empowered by the Holy Spirit, we are called to be different. We are called to extend grace where judgment is offered, to build bridges where walls are erected, and to provide compassion where indifference prevails. We are called to see the image of God in every person, regardless of their background, beliefs, or circumstances. We are called to the messy, challenging, and ultimately transformative work of loving one another deeply and authentically.

The glory Jesus spoke of in that upper room continues to unfold in those who choose to live out this commandment. When we love as Christ loved, we reflect his glory to the world. We become living testimonies to the power of the resurrection, demonstrating that death has been defeated in a historical event and how we choose to live our lives. So, dear children of God, as we continue our journey beyond Easter, let us embrace this defining characteristic. Let our love for one another be so profound that it becomes an undeniable testament to the resurrected Christ who lives within us. Let us be Easter people, not just in memory, but in the fabric of our being, radiating the love that conquers all.