In the Gospel of John, chapter 17, verse 20, Jesus offers a profound prayer that transcends time and space: “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message.” This verse is a testament to the inclusive and forward-looking nature of Jesus’ love and mission. It speaks to the heart of what it means to embrace a new life in Christ—a life characterized by unity, love, and purpose.
John 17:20 The New International Version
20 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message.
A Prayer for All Believers
Jesus’ prayer in John 17 is not limited to His immediate disciples but extends to all who would come to believe through their message. This includes us today, as we continue to hear and respond to the gospel. His prayer emphasizes the importance of unity among believers, reflecting the unity that exists within the Trinity itself. This spiritual unity is foundational to our identity as Christians and is essential for our witness to the world.
Unity as a Reflection of Divine Love
The unity Jesus prays for is not merely organizational or superficial; it is deeply spiritual. It mirrors the perfect unity between the Father and the Son. As believers, we are called to embody this unity by loving one another as Christ loves us. This love is selfless and sacrificial, rooted in the greatest commandment: to love God and love our neighbours as ourselves.
In living out this unity, we become visible signs of God’s love in the world. Our oneness in Christ serves as a powerful testimony to those around us, demonstrating the transformative power of the gospel. As we draw closer to God through prayer, worship, and scripture, we naturally draw closer to each other, strengthening our bonds as members of Christ’s body.
Living Out Our New Life
Embracing a new life in Christ means participating in His mission of reconciliation and redemption. It involves actively seeking ways to serve others and share the message of hope that we have received. This new life is marked by continual growth in faith and character, guided by the Holy Spirit.
Jesus’ prayer also assures us of His ongoing presence and support. Knowing that He prays for us gives us confidence and courage to face challenges with grace and resilience. As we navigate life’s ups and downs, we can find peace in His promise of eternal life and glory—a future where we will fully experience His love and presence.
Read More About This Devotional
Words of Wisdom: A Life of Mission: Following Christ’s Example
Quote of the Day: “Roll up your sleeves and take action, but don’t forget to bend your knees”
Encouragement for Today
As you reflect on this devotional, consider how you can contribute to the unity Jesus prayed for. How can you show love to those around you? In what ways can you deepen your relationship with God and others? Remember that every act of kindness and every moment spent in prayer strengthens the bonds of unity within the Christian community.
Let this be an encouragement: Embrace your new life in Christ with joy and gratitude. Allow His love to guide your actions and words, knowing that you are part of a greater story—one that spans generations and reaches into eternity.
Scripture Reading for the Day
Ecclesiastes 5 The New International Version
A psalm of Asaph
1 Surely God is good to Israel,
to those who are pure in heart.2 But as for me, my feet had almost slipped;
I had nearly lost my foothold.
3 For I envied the arrogant
when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.4 They have no struggles;
their bodies are healthy and strong.
5 They are free from common human burdens;
they are not plagued by human ills.
6 Therefore pride is their necklace;
they clothe themselves with violence.
7 From their callous hearts comes iniquity;
their evil imaginations have no limits.
8 They scoff, and speak with malice;
with arrogance they threaten oppression.
9 Their mouths lay claim to heaven,
and their tongues take possession of the earth.
10 Therefore their people turn to them
and drink up waters in abundance.
11 They say, “How would God know?
Does the Most High know anything?”12 This is what the wicked are like—
always free of care, they go on amassing wealth.13 Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure
and have washed my hands in innocence.
14 All day long I have been afflicted,
and every morning brings new punishments.15 If I had spoken out like that,
I would have betrayed your children.
16 When I tried to understand all this,
it troubled me deeply
17 till I entered the sanctuary of God;
then I understood their final destiny.18 Surely you place them on slippery ground;
you cast them down to ruin.
19 How suddenly are they destroyed,
completely swept away by terrors!
20 They are like a dream when one awakes;
when you arise, Lord,
you will despise them as fantasies.21 When my heart was grieved
and my spirit embittered,
22 I was senseless and ignorant;
I was a brute beast before you.23 Yet I am always with you;
you hold me by my right hand.
24 You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will take me into glory.
25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
And earth has nothing I desire besides you.
26 My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart
and my portion forever.27 Those who are far from you will perish;
you destroy all who are unfaithful to you.
28 But as for me, it is good to be near God.
I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge;
I will tell of all your deeds.
