“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” –John 13:34-35

Just imagine how Mary and Joseph must have anticipated the arrival of their child some twenty centuries ago. Both of them had been visited by an angel telling them that Mary would deliver this holy child, the Son of God. Who was their baby to become? What would the life of this child be like? On that starlit night in Bethlehem, the earthly life of Christ began— a life different from any before or since.

Jesus became a man of teaching, healing, and caring, but most of all a man of unconditional love. He taught that we should not only love those who love us in return. Christ said, “…love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).

Of course, Jesus loved His family, His disciples, His friends, and His followers. His message about love goes much deeper than that, as He illustrated through the story of the good samaritan. Christ also loved those who were more difficult to love, such as the Roman centurions who imposed their own laws, tax collectors who were corrupt, lepers who were considered unclean, and Judas who betrayed Him. Even as He was preparing to make the ultimate sacrifice for all mankind, Jesus showed compassion for the thief hanging on the cross next to Him. And while He was drawing His final breath, He asked God to forgive those who were putting Him to death.

That is how Jesus lived His life, as a perfect example for His disciples and for Christians through the ages. He lovingly served His heavenly Father, as should we.

Because we know what the life of Mary and Joseph’s baby means to each of us, we have every reason to celebrate this Advent season. Christ came to show us that no matter what we are doing to follow His teachings and to serve God, we must also love as He loved. As we listen once again to the beautiful story of Christ’s birth, we are filled with joy and gratitude for His undying love for all humanity. Glory be to God in the Highest!

-Charlotte Baldwin