Diocese of/de Pembroke

Imagine a love so vast and powerful that it created everything we see and beyond, a love so personal it knows every beat of our hearts, and so unwavering it never gives up on us. For many, the idea of God’s love can feel distant or even unfamiliar. Perhaps life’s struggles have made it hard for us to believe. But at the very core of what it means to be human, there’s an aching for connection, a longing for purpose, and a desire to be truly seen, loved and understood. And that’s exactly where Jesus comes in.

He’s not just a historical figure; He is a living invitation to encounter a love capable of transforming everything. When we begin to grasp just a glimpse of this immense love, it naturally awakens a desire in us to respond to it, to follow the path He laid out, and to share the incredible peace and joy that come from Him.

Why We Find Ourselves Loving Jesus

We might wonder, “Why Jesus?” Well, because He is the clearest picture of God’s love made real and tangible. Think about it: God, who is immense and beyond our full understanding, chose to become one of us, to live a human life just like ours, with all its joys and struggles. This is the Incarnation – God stepping into our world, not as a king on a throne, but as a humble person, walking among us (Philippians 2:6-8). This radical humility is incredibly lovable because it shows how much He truly values us.

Jesus showed an unconditional love that cut through all the labels and judgments we often place on each other. He spent time with people who were overlooked, sick, or cast aside. He touched the untouchable, forgave those who society condemned, and always saw the inherent dignity in every single person. He never shied away from anyone’s brokenness; instead, He offered healing and a fresh start. His love isn’t earned; it’s freely given to us.

Then there’s the ultimate act of love: the sacrifice He made. Jesus willingly gave His life on a cross, not because He deserved it, but to bridge the gap between us and God, to free us from the heavy burden of our mistakes, and to open up a path to a truly fulfilling life (Romans 5:8). This isn’t just an old story; it’s a profound declaration that we are worth dying for. Even today, we can encounter His living presence in special ways, like in the Eucharist, a sacred meal where Jesus is truly present, offering Himself as spiritual nourishment, a tangible sign that He is always with us (John 6:53-58).

His wisdom and teachings are another reason for us to love Him. He expressed deep truths with striking simplicity, showing us how to live with purpose—how to forgive, how to love our neighbour, and how to discover lasting joy not in possessions, but in our identity and in belonging to God (Matthew 6:33). His words resonate with a deep truth that speaks directly to the human heart, guiding us toward a life of genuine purpose.

Why We Are Called to Follow Jesus

As we begin to experience this kind of love, it’s only natural to ask: could His words in Scripture be meant for me? — “My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me.” (John 10:27)

Following Jesus isn’t about rigid rules or losing our individuality; it’s about finding the most authentic version of ourselves and discovering a life of profound meaning. He Himself said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). In a world that often feels confusing and uncertain, Jesus offers us a clear path, a profound truth, and a vibrant life.

We feel called to follow Jesus because He offers a peace that the world simply cannot provide (Philippians 4:7). It’s an inner calm that remains even amidst life’s storms. When we put our trust in Him, we find release from anxiety and a deep sense of security. Following Him is also a journey of inner transformation. He doesn’t just ask us to change our actions; He wants to change our hearts, helping us overcome habits that hold us back and grow into a more loving, compassionate, and joyful person. This transformation is a lifelong process, often nurtured through prayer and spiritual practices that Christians have embraced for centuries.

When we follow Jesus, we also become part of something much bigger than ourselves: His family, the Church. This isn’t just a building or an institution; it’s a community of people on the same journey, supporting each other, sharing their struggles, and celebrating their victories. Here, through shared experiences and practices like the Sacraments (special rituals like baptism), we receive grace and strength for our journey. This community helps us discover our unique gifts and encourages us to use them to serve others, making a positive difference in the world.

Finally, we follow Jesus with the hope of eternal belonging. He promises to prepare a place for us beyond this life, a deep and lasting union with God (John 14:2-3). This isn’t just wishful thinking; it’s a core promise that gives ultimate meaning to our lives now. It helps us face challenges with courage, knowing that our true home is with Him, filled with unending joy and love.

When we open ourselves to this profound love and begin to walk with Jesus, we discover a richness and purpose we might not have known existed. It’s a journey that naturally overflows into a desire to share this incredible blessing with others, inviting them to experience the transformative power of God’s love for themselves.