Spend time in prayer and silence with God, asking Him to meet with you and speak to you.
Bible Reading
“I have revealed You to those whom You gave Me out of the world. They were Yours; You gave them to Me and they have obeyed Your word. Now they know that everything You have given Me comes from You. For I gave them the words You gave Me and they accepted them. They knew with certainty that I came from You, and they believed that You sent me. I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those You have given Me, for they are Yours. All I have is Yours, and all You have is Mine. And glory has come to Me through them. I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to You. Holy Father, protect them by the power of Your name—the name You gave Me—so that they may be one as We are one. While I was with them, I protected them and kept them safe by that name You gave Me. None has been lost except the one doomed to destruction so that Scripture would be fulfilled.”
– John 17:6-12
Devotion
In this second part of Jesus prayer, He prays for the disciples that are with Him. These eleven men have been with Jesus since He called them to follow Him. He prays for their protection and for unity. In order for Christ’s mission to continue after He leaves, His disciples must be united in their mission and move forward with God’s protection. Jesus’ concern for His disciples is evident here.
The Big Question
How do you think the disciples felt as they heard Jesus praying for them? Why would unity be so important in the early days of the church? How do you feel when you know others are praying for you? Do you let others know you are praying for them?
Conclude your time in prayer and silence, reflecting on what God revealed to you today.