Read: John 17:20-26
I in them and you in me . . . (v. 23)
Patrick, patron saint of Ireland, prayed, “Christ be with me, Christ within me, Christ behind me, Christ before me, Christ beside me, . . . Christ beneath me . . .” His famous breastplate prayer describes Jesus’s presence as being in the heart and mouth of everyone, in every eye that sees him, and every ear that hears him. What a beautiful picture he has given us!
In our passage today, we’re reminded of Jesus’s presence with us as he prays for unity. Throughout Scripture, Jesus often prayed alone on a mountain. In today’s Bible reading, Jesus was preparing to leave this world. He interceded for his disciples and for us—for those “who will believe in me through their word” (v. 20). He prays that we will be one as he is one with his Father. “I in them and you in me” (v. 23). This is a great assurance of his presence with us. And because God’s presence through the Holy Spirit is within us, the apostle Paul says it is the Spirit who intercedes for us even when we can’t utter a word (Rom. 8:26).
What is on your heart today? Are you weighed down by worry, health issues, family conflicts, or world matters? Do you find it hard to pray? Jesus has already thought of you and prayed for you. And he continues to pray with you and for you. His Spirit prays in our behalf. We are not alone. Know today that Jesus is with you, within you, behind you, and before you.
As you pray, remember Jesus prays for you.
Nancy Boote, an ordained minister in the Reformed Church in America, lives in Holland, Michigan, with her husband. She serves in a variety of leadership positions within the denomination. Besides being a wife, mother, and grandmother, Nancy enjoys taking prayer walks, hiking in nature, mentoring, and has a heart for justice matters.
