I’ve always been intrigued by the concept of Jesus praying while he was on earth. In my younger years I wondered quietly why God couldn’t just read his son’s mind and respond to what he was thinking rather than waiting for him to verbalize it. I mean, if Jesus was fully God while on earth, couldn’t that have actually happened?
When I read John 17, however, I’m drawn to the intensity of Jesus’ words. Although I may have questions about how John received the words, I choose rather to focus on their message. Here’s what strikes me from the text of the chapter:
- Jesus’ mission while on earth was to bring salvation and truth
- Jesus wanted to ensure that his followers would be fully prepared to carry on that mission after he returned to the Father
- Jesus desperately desired that all of those God gave him would remain
- Jesus was concerned for his followers’ safety, both spiritually and physically
- Jesus recognized how important it was that his followers remained unified after he left
Essentially, what John 17 urges me to understand is that God is fully aware of everything that happens to me as an individual believer and to his followers in general. Knowing all things, Jesus foresaw a time when those followers would be under attack by fellow humans carrying out the directions of Satan himself. His prayer was that true believers would persevere during those hard times and remain faithful to the end.
Isn’t that amazing? Jesus knew how hard it would be for Christians to remain faithful in the midst of opposition so he was asking, pleading even, for God to protect them. That should fill you with joy when you are facing trials of many kinds, for as James writes, “because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” (James 1:3) That is precisely what Jesus prayed for.
God, it is amazing to me that you care so deeply about my salvation. You not only provided a way for me to be reconciled to you through Jesus’ death and resurrection, you care that I persevere to the end. Your desire to see me enjoy eternal life with you urges me to stay faithful.
Throughout This Day: When you are facing challenges in your life, remember that Jesus intercedes on your behalf to the Father.
Photo Credit: Ben White