In many areas of life, it’s not enough to know what we’re supposed to do. We also need to understand the how and the why.

For example, a doctor might say, “Take this medication.” But the instruction only helps if we understand how to take it — dosage, timing, and whether it should be taken with food — and why it matters — to prevent infection, manage blood pressure, or reduce inflammation.

In John 13:34, Jesus gives us a command — the what: “Love one another.” But he doesn’t stop there. He also gives us the how and the why. He shows us how to love and why it matters.