Posted by The WORD in other words (2006) by Father Ed Fuguso SVD – SVD Retreat House, Tagaytay City
Monday 5th Week of Easter
We often hear in homilies and retreats about the “unconditional love of God.” Whoever we are, wherever we are, whatever we have done — God still accepts us and loves us (Romans 5:8).
Yet when we encounter today’s Gospel, those “romantic phrases” are not so easily received. Jesus tells us that only those who truly love Him — expressed in their acceptance of His commands and obedience to His teachings — will be the recipients of His love and that of the Father: “Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him” (John 14:21).
In the following chapter, Jesus makes this even clearer: “…You are my friends if you do what I command you” (John 15:14). Love and obedience are inseparable.
When Jesus forgave the woman caught in adultery, He said: “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on do not sin anymore” (John 8:11). His mercy was unconditional, but His invitation was conditional — to live a transformed life.
Points for Reflection
- How do I understand my Christian discipleship? Is it merely receiving God’s love, or is it also living in obedience to His Word (James 1:22)?
- Am I more of a receiver or a giver? Do I only take God’s love, or do I return it through obedience and service (1 John 4:19–21)?
God’s love is indeed unconditional in its offer, but it becomes conditional in its fruit — obedience, transformation, and discipleship. As Jesus said: “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15).
“Lord Jesus, help me to love You not only in words but in deeds, by keeping Your commands and living as Your disciple.”
One comment