In today’s first reading John echoes Jesus’ twofold commandment of love of God and love of neighbor: “And his commandment is this: we should believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and love one another just as he commanded us.” John calls us to put our faith and trust in Jesus Christ and to show love for each other. He calls us “Beloved”, because we are already loved by God. This love of God empowers us and obliges us to love one another: “Beloved, if God so loved us, we also must love one another.” (1 John 4:11).
John speaks of one commandment not two (“his commandment”). Love of God and love of neighbor cannot be separated: “Those who say, “I love God,” and hate their brothers or sisters, are liars; for those who do not love a brother or sister whom they have seen, cannot love God whom they have not seen.” (1 John 4:20). This whole 4th chapter of 1 John is an enlightening and challenging reflection of love and the demands it places on our daily life.
As those who have been loved by God John tells us we know the truth if we use Jesus as our guide. He also warns us about purveyors of lies: “Beloved, do not trust every spirit but test the spirits to see whether they belong to God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” Each day we hear numerous rumors and “conspiracy theories” that seem to spread like wildfires on the Internet and do much damage to our spiritual and physical health. How are we to judge these rumors and reports? John tells us Jesus Christ is our sure guide. So, faith and love, trust in God and love of neighbor, should always guide us in judging any rumor, report, or prophecy.
As we continue to face the Covid Virus Pope Francis has challenged us to respond with love. “Vaccination is a simple but profound way of promoting the common good and caring for each other, especially the most vulnerable… contributing to ensure the majority of people are vaccinated is an act of love — love for oneself, love for one’s family and friends, love for all people.” Let us strive today to love one another as God has loved us.