John 17 in my Bible has the title “The High Priestly Prayer”. Jesus has finished his extensive teaching session with the disciples and now he prays to God for himself and for his followers. The hour has come, Jesus’ journey on earth is ending.

Jesus begins with this summary statement about eternal life: “This is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you sent.” (John 17:3). Fascinating, isn’t it?! Eternal life is knowing God and his Son. What does he mean by “knowing”? It’s not simply knowing information about them; but knowing them in a deep relationship. Eternal life is having a personal relationship with God through his Son Jesus. Under the new covenant, because of the work of Jesus on the cross and the presence of the Holy Spirit, believers can have a personal relationship with God.

Jesus then prays for himself and his disciples. What does He ask for from God?

–Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you
–That the disciples might know God (and this is eternal life)
–That the disciples might know JesusProtect them (disciples) by the power of your name
–I say these things…so they may have the full measure of my joy within them
–Sanctify them (make them holy) by the truth; your word is truth
–My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message (future generations), that all of them may be one
–May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me
–I have given them the glory that you gave me that they may be one as we are one
–May they be brought to complete unity to the world know that you sent me
–I have made you known to them and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them.

What is Jesus concerned about? The glory of God. The relationship his followers develop with God. The protection of his followers. The development of deep joy and a love for others among his followers. The expansion of the kingdom of God because of his followers’ witness. And finally, unity among the believers (four times).

What stands out to you from the list of things Jesus petitioned God for? Would this be a good prayer for you to pray for yourself, your family, and your congregation?