As Jesus gathered with his disciples for his last supper, he not only communed with them, but he also served them in a unique way. Before the meal began, he took off his outer robe, knelt down with a basin of water and a towel, and washed their feet. It was a stunning act of service by the King of kings and Lord of lords! Then Jesus began to teach his disciples: “I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:34-35)
This familiar text is a reminder of what sets Jesus’ followers apart: a self-sacrificing love for one another. Jesus did not say “it would be really neat if you would be nice to one another.” He was not asking his followers to tolerate or put up with one another. He did not offer his example of humble service as a suggestion among a buffet of options. He clearly states this as a new command that is a mark of every single disciple of Jesus. Jesus makes the clear connection that this love will be noticed by the world and is key to sharing Jesus’ love and bearing witness to the Gospel to the world. So, this loving one another thing is really important for our mission in the world!
But what does it mean to love one another? What does this look like in your local church and current ministry context? How do we relate to and connect with one another in ways that are loving, forgiving, serving, encouraging, and, in all ways, build up the body of Christ? As an association of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ, I believe that it is essential to connect and relate to one another in ways that strengthen our mutual mission and ministry and lead to healthier churches in each of our communities.
For this reason, I would like you to join me and others from across our association as we take two days to dive deeper into this topic. Our Winter Retreats will gather in beautiful Concan, Texas next month around the theme of “One Another”. There are two identical retreats being offered, so choose the one that best fits in your schedule: Sunday evening, February 2 through Tuesday noon, February 4 or Wednesday evening, February 5 through Friday noon, February 7. Each retreat will feature two teaching tracks. LCMC’s Coordinator for Leadership and Pastoral Development Christian Huntley will be teaching the Leadership Track while Texas District Council member Barbara Hoover will be leading the Devotional Track.
The retreat is open to all and is an affordable opportunity to grow in your walk with God and develop your relational capacity to love others as Jesus loves us. If you register by January 11, the retreat registration costs $120 and includes the program, food, and lodging. To learn more and register online, go to www.lcmctexas.org/winter-retreat. Feel free to reach out with any questions as we are here to help: 512-942-7776 or info@lcmctexas.org.
