“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone that loveth is born of God and knoweth God.” (1 John 4:7)
This verse resonates deeply for members of the Church, for it calls upon us to embrace love as a reflection of Heavenly Father’s nature and a path to knowing Him. Love is a divine gift, a connection to Heavenly Father. To truly understand God, we must first understand love. Love is a force that binds us, transcending religious and cultural boundaries, just as our heritage unites us.
In the Latter-day Saint tradition, family is at the core of our beliefs, and love is the foundation upon which our families are built. We understand that when we love one another, we reflect the love of God, who loves us unconditionally. Those of us with Jewish roots also recognise the ancient wisdom that teaches us to love our neighbours as ourselves. (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 22:36-39) This love extends not only to our immediate community but to all of God’s children. It is a love that knows no boundaries or prejudices. It is a love that unites us with the divine.
Let’s keep in mind that the act of loving one another is a testament to our connection with God. It is through love that we recognise His presence in our lives. It is through love that we embrace the essence of our faith, regardless of our diverse backgrounds. Through love, we not only express our care and compassion for our fellow human beings but also acknowledge the divine presence in our lives. Love serves as a conduit through which we can experience and manifest our faith, transcending the boundaries of our diverse backgrounds. In loving one another, we reflect the teachings of many faith traditions that emphasise the importance of compassion, kindness, and empathy. This love is not limited by geographical, cultural, or religious differences; it is a universal language that unites us in our shared humanity.
Through the act of loving one another, we demonstrate our understanding of the divine commandments to love our neighbours as ourselves, one of the core teachings of Jesus. This love extends beyond mere words or rituals; it is a practical expression of our faith that brings people of different backgrounds together.
In the present world, which is full of divisions and conflicts, the practice of loving one another stands as a testament to our shared connection with Heavenly Father and our common humanity. It is a reminder that, whilst our backgrounds may differ, the essence of our faith remains rooted in love, and it is through this love that we can work towards a more harmonious community.
Let’s always carry this message in our hearts. Let’s strive to love one another, to build bonds that are rooted in Heavenly Father’s love. In doing so, we not only follow the teachings of 1 John 4:7, but we also honour the rich tapestry of our heritage.
In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
