1 “HE LOVED US”, Saint Paul says of Christ (cf. Rom 8:37), in order to make us realize that nothing can ever “separate us” from that love ( Rom 8:39). Paul could say this with certainty because Jesus himself had told his disciples, “I have loved you” ( Jn 15:9, 12). Even now, the Lord says to us, “I have called you friends” ( Jn 15:15). His open heart has gone before us and waits for us, unconditionally, asking only to offer us his love and friendship. For “he loved us first” (cf. 1 Jn 4:10). Because of Jesus, “we have come to know and believe in the love that God has for us” ( 1 Jn 4:16).
Source: Dilexit Nos (Vatican.va)