Last week we reflected on how we are part of the vine, first because Jesus chooses us to be so, but then because we respond by choosing to strengthen and feed our connection to the vine, as well as prune from ourselves of that which is not connected. We also uplifted that once we make that choice we cannot help but become intricately connected to the other members of our faith community, and the larger body of Christ. This week we are guided in no uncertain terms what this relationship means, as Jesus lays out the essence of what he expects of his followers, namely that "we love each other as he has loved us." This love is not about merely claiming to love the other, but at it's heart it means that we must recognize how as Christians we are often called to put the needs of others in front of our own needs. This giving of oneself is an amazing gift in and of itself, as it has been repeatedly shown how those who carry themselves in such a manner find it bears fruits of great personal inner rewards, that (as this weeks reading suggests) truly are life lasting.