Daily Gospel Reflection for May 10, 2026: Sixth Sunday of Easter

Explore the connection between love and obedience in following God's commandments, and discover how to inspire your children through grace and compassion.

Today's Gospel: John 14:15-21

“If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” John 14:15

Ever since my kids were old enough to understand, I’d remind them of the rules of our household: be kind, put others before yourself, choose right over wrong, and do your fair share in the family. None of those guidelines were too taxing, and all were created for their good. I wanted them to grow up and be contributing members of society, in all the best ways.

So, when they broke any of my rules, I took it personally, as if they were purposefully trying to defy me. My view was if Jesus could say “If you love me, you will keep my commandments," then so could I.

Yet, when I break God’s commandments, am I doing so because I don’t love Him? Not at all. It’s just me being weak, giving in to temptation. So, why did Jesus tie love and rule-keeping together?

I believe it’s because He wanted love to be the inspiration for following the Commandments. He didn’t want fear, guilt or peer pressure to be our motivation. Those emotions lead to resentment. He knows what is good for us and what will bring us true and abiding joy. He set the framework and the boundaries to contain that truth and joy. Love is His invitation to open the gate and step inside so we can enjoy the sanctuary of His grace, His kingdom here on earth.

The next time we, or our children, are tempted to break one of His commandments, we need to think of that sanctuary and decide: Do I want to exist inside it? Or be stuck on the outside looking in? Choose love. Open the gate. Step inside.

Ponder:

Do I take it personally when my kids break my rules? Do I think God takes it personally when I break His?

Pray:

Compassionate God, inspire me to follow Your commandments out of love for You, role-modeling for my children what that looks like.

Pray Together:

Cut out paper hearts and place them next to a jar. Every time you follow a rule or commandment out of love, put a heart into the jar.

Copyright 2026 Claire McGarry