Jesus’ Prayer That The World May Know Him

I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one as we are one. I am in them and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me. Father, I want these whom you have given me to be with me where I am. Then they can see all the glory you gave me because you loved me even before the world began!

John 17:22-24

As we remember Jesus’ birth this week, we should remember why Christ came to this earth in the first place. In this prayer, Jesus spoke about his purpose for coming, asking that we, who believe in him, might experience oneness with God and with each other. His prayer puts into words what Jesus accomplished with his life—the reestablishment of our relationship with God as well as the possibility of unity between all people. Jesus became one of us so that we could become one with God. The child whose birth we remember grew into the one who invites us to become children in his heavenly Kingdom.

As you contemplate what Jesus’ life and death means to you, pray that you may reflect Jesus’ love in your life by showing love to others.

• Dear God, help me to show your love so that the world may know that you sent your Son to save us . . .