Monday, May 11, 2026

Scripture

“Holy Father, protect them in your name that you have given me, so that they may be one, as we are one.” John 17:11b

Reflections

It is a special thing when one prays for another.  In this reading from John, we hear Jesus praying for his disciples.  That includes all who are learning and following in his ways, including people like you and me.

What does he pray?  First that we might be protected.  His desire is that we might be kept safe from harm.  In this way, we pray in the Spirit of Jesus to “save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil.”

Secondly, he prays that we might be one.  It is very important to him that his followers are living his love for one another.  This is his way.  “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (Jn. 13:35)

We have friends in other parts (or denominations) of the Christian Church.  The tempter entices us to speak poorly of them and criticize them.  This is not the way of Jesus.  Like any family, we may have internal differences, but when all is said and done, we’re still family.  There is only one heavenly Father.  We belong to each other.

So then, what does it mean to “be one”?  Jesus said that He and the Father were one.  We confess they are one.  That’s how close Jesus wants us to be with our brothers and sisters; “one as we are one”.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for your protection and the gift of my brothers and sisters in the faith.  Shape my heart in love so that your love will flow through me.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: John 17:1-11