Jesus’ Prayer For Believers

O righteous Father, the world doesn’t know you, but I do; and these disciples know you sent me. I have revealed you to them, and I will continue to do so. Then your love for me will be in them, and I will be in them.

John 17:25-26

At the Last Supper, Jesus prepared his disciples for his approaching death. He washed their feet, talked about his coming betrayal, predicted Peter’s denial, and told them about the Holy Spirit. Then Jesus prayed for them, asking the Father to “keep them safe from the evil one” and to “make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth” (17:15, 17). Even as he faced betrayal, denial, crucifixion, and death, Jesus was concerned about his followers. He didn’t ask that they be kept from every trial, but he did pray that they remain in God’s love.

We can take great comfort that Jesus included us in his prayer: “I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message” (17:20).

• Dear Jesus, thank you for your concern for me that even in your last few hours on earth you prayed for me . . .