Chosen as Friends: Living the Commandment of Love
Chosen as Friends: Living the Commandment of Love Readings First Reading - Acts of the Apostles 15:22-31 Responsorial Psalm- Psalm 57:8-9.10-12 Alleluia - John 15:15 Gospel Reading - John 15:12-17 The readings from Acts 15:22–31; Psalm 57; and John 15:12–17 reveal the heart of Christian life: we are chosen by Christ, called His friends, and sent to love one another as He has loved us. In the Gospel of Gospel of John (15:12–17), Jesus gives one of His clearest and most powerful commandments: “Love one another as I have loved you.” This is not ordinary love. Jesus sets Himself as the example. His love is patient, sacrificial, forgiving, and faithful—even to the point of giving His life. Then He says something extraordinary: “I no longer call you slaves… I have called you friends.” What a beautiful relationship Christ offers us. We are not distant servants acting out of fear. We are invited into closeness, trust, and communion with Him. He shares His heart with us and ca...