John 17: 15-21
15 My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. 17 Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. 18 As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. 19 For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.20 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 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.
Do you ever realize how important you are to God? More than 2000 years ago, Jesus prayed for your protection. How does that make you feel? Who are we that He is mindful of us?
Jesus had just been telling the disciples what would be happening in the near future. He is preparing them for His departure from this world. He tells them that He must go away in order for the Holy Spirit to come to be with us. The Holy Spirit will dwell within us. Jesus is praying for His own (you and me); that they would be safe and strong. He is asking God to protect them from the evil one. He also asked for us to be sanctified. That means to be set apart as or declared holy; consecrated.
But here is the thing that really stuck out for me. Jesus said “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message….” That’s you and me! He that created everything seen and unseen prayed for us. We matter to Jesus. He is concerned with our welfare. He is asking God the Father to protect us and guide us.
Did you realize that you were that important? Did you know the Creator of the universe cares about you? You are special. You are a masterpiece. You were created in His image and likeness. You are well able. How does a person with all those qualifications live their life? Should you be bold? Should you be confident? Yes you should! What would you do if you knew you could not fail? If God be for you, who dares be against you? Step out in faith knowing Jesus intercedes for you that you may be one with Him and God the Father!
Father, give us a boldness in You! Help us live lives that bring glory to your holy name. Make us aware of all we mean to you and let us live as heirs to the Kingdom and brothers and sisters of Christ. By Your will and power, let us live for and in You. In Your name we pray!