Surrounded

20 "I ask not only on behalf of these, but also on behalf of those who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one. As you, Father, 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. (John 17:20-21)

It's hard to imagine that, as he faced the end of his earthly ministry and life, Jesus prayed for us. He was neither preaching nor teaching, here. Jesus was interceding for us - speaking with the Father on our behalf. How humbling to know that we were on his mind even at this most difficult time. Jesus did not pray that we would be happy, nor did he request that the way would be easy. Rather, Jesus' deepest desire was for us to have the same relationship with God and each other that he had - oneness, unity. As polarized as we are today unity seems like a fantasy. But we can strive for it. We can be intentional in our love for God and neighbor by putting others before ourselves. And we, like Jesus, can pray for unity even when it seems impossible.

We are, each of us, surrounded by the presence of God - upheld, guided, strengthened. As we lift one another in prayer continually, the light of Christ will shine in and through us - protecting us not from danger, but through it. As we hold one another before the Throne of Grace we are united in purpose with each other and with Christ.

9 Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; 10 Love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. 11 Do not lack in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. 12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. 13 Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. 16 Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; (Romans 12:9-16)