Article December 24, 2012 ISSUE

How does Jesus' love unite us?

Barbara Vining

One thing is undeniable: Jesus and love are inextricably intertwined. This relationship is keenly felt during the Christmas season, when the nativity of Jesus is the reason for the celebration, and when love is the keynote feeling among humankind.

I’m reminded of Jesus’ promise that “where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20). Does this mean that the physical Jesus is in our presence when he is the center of our attention? No. But it certainly does mean that the Spirit of love that he lived and taught is in our midst, and is moving our hearts and minds to unite in loving one another as he loved us.