After all that Jesus shared with his disciples, he closes in prayer. This is significant because usually Jesus would go off by himself to pray. Here, his disciples are an audience to hear how Jesus prays to the Father. In this instance, Jesus prays for himself and for others.
Jesus knows what is coming next, such a pivotal time in history. Jesus’ work on earth will soon be finished, and his emotions are on high alert. He opens the prayer with his cry of intent to bring glory to God in these final moments, while at the same time craving the glory of the LORD, his accustomed surrounding. Jesus anticipated great pain before that moment in glory.
As Jesus’ prayer continues, Jesus wants to be sure that his disciples are cared for. Jesus knew he’d be leaving them and tried to warn them about future events, but the disciples had a hard time understanding. Jesus wants to make sure they will be protected.
Jesus knew the masses would harbor hatred toward the disciples because of their association with him. These people would not understand the magnitude of what has just happened because they didn’t recognize Jesus for who he was. Even people today fail to truly grasp what Jesus is about to endure, and that it was for us.
Don’t get stuck on the “who belongs to whom” discussion. It’s clear Jesus wants to cover for us and make sure we’re all included as belonging to God. Again, Jesus knows best that we will need a loving Father to guide and protect us by His power.
My favorite part of this prayer is when Jesus says this. “Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.” Holiness comes from God alone. We allow ourselves to be taught when we spend time in God’s word. When we read the Bible, we are reading what is “truth.” Don’t let the world confuse you here with other uses of the word truth.
At first, you might think this was a nice prayer that Jesus prayed for his disciples during the Last Supper. Then Jesus made it clear who he was praying for. “I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message.” We easily fit into the category of believers.
Jesus wants unity for his family of believers. My heart often breaks when churches split or Christians belittle each other for one reason or another. We should lean in to this part of Jesus’ prayer. “May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.” When Christians unite, there is extraordinary power.
You may have even experienced the peace you feel when you realize you’re talking with another Christian. It’s like finding a family member, someone who understands and can appreciate your relationship with Jesus. There’s an unspoken closeness that results from being able to share faith with another. Jesus knew that, too, and prayed on our behalf.
How do you respond knowing that Jesus prayed for you? If he did it then, I can’t imagine he has ever stopped. Remember how much Jesus cares for you today.
Let’s pray. Jesus, my heart is overflowing with peace and gratitude for how you prayed for me and other believers. For all that you did to understand me and my weaknesses, I will be forever grateful. I want my actions to glorify you. I want people to reconnect with your Word. I know you’re guiding my steps. Help me to follow you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
