John 17:20 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message,
“I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message….” What an incredibly powerful prayer. Jesus, as He was preparing to give His life for us, prayed for His disciples and for “those who will believe in me through their message.” That’s us and everyone whose lives we touch as we tell about our mighty Savior.
John 17:21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.
This is why we can’t discount people. This is why we can’t ostracize others. We have no idea who will come to believe in Jesus because of our words. None. And as He neared the hour of His death, Jesus not only prayed for His disciples AND for us, He prayed for them, too. All of those folks who will eventually come to believe in Him, no matter how long it might take.
John 17:22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one—
Precious Savior, Thank You for seeing the value in all of us. Thank You for Your prayers in the time leading up to Your death. Thank You for the hope of heaven, the hope of You. Help us recognize that hope in all whom we encounter. Always. Amen.
John 17:23 I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.
Have a blessed day.