Mission Briefing
The One Thing That Shows Who You Belong To
Sports teams wear jerseys so everyone can tell which team they play for. Jesus gives us something even better than a jersey – He says the way we love each other is the sign that tells the whole world we belong to Him! This mission explores John 13:34-35.
What Does John 13:34-35 Mean?
On the night before Jesus died, He gave His followers a brand-new command: love each other the same way He loved them – completely, sacrificially, and unconditionally. He said this kind of love would be like a badge that the whole world could see. When people watch how we treat one another, they should be able to tell we follow Jesus.
Hero Challenge
This week, look for someone at school, church, or in your neighborhood who seems lonely or left out, and make a point to include them and show them kindness. Ask God to help your love be so noticeable that people wonder where it comes from!
Did You Know?
Jesus called this a “new” commandment, but the Old Testament already taught people to love their neighbors. What made it new was the standard – “as I have loved you.” No one had ever set the bar that high before. Jesus was saying: my love for you is now the model for how you love everyone else.
Ages 4-6: Little Hero Question
How does Jesus love us? Can you think of one way to love a friend the same way Jesus loves you?
Ages 7-9: Growing Hero Question
Jesus says people will know we follow Him by our love. Have you ever seen someone’s love for others make you curious about God? What was that like?
Ages 10-13: Champion Question
Jesus set His own love as the standard for how we love. What does it actually look like to love someone “as Jesus loved us” – even someone who is difficult or has hurt you?
♥ Mission Prayer
Jesus, thank You for loving me more than I can fully understand. Help me to love the people around me with the same kind of big, selfless love You showed me. Let my love for others be a sign to everyone that I follow You. Amen.
