I'm always deeply moved by these passages of John, mystical and challenging words speaking deeply to the heart and getting to the heart of the challenge of truly living the gospel.
Jesus prays that we may be one as He and the Father are one. He prays that we be protected from evil. He prays that we might have joy. He prays that we will be sanctified for He is sending us out into the world.
It's easy to read these words and dismiss them. Thinking that was back then or He's not with us now - how can this be possible.
Two mornings after, yet another mass shooting where children have been killed. The reality of violence in our world is painful and undeniable. And so, we pray - Lord, deliver us from evil.
Yet this is world we are sent into and sanctified for.
So, when I am tired and troubled and lose heart, I try to remember that Jesus, too lived in a violent and broken world. Yet that he prays for us on that night, knowing that he is about to be betrayed. He has given us Himself that we might be sanctified and be made one in the love and peace and even joy that surpasses understanding.
We pray in the midst of darkness, we pray for the children and the community of Parkland, Florida for healing, for truth, for oneness in a broken world.
We pray for our own incompleteness. Help us to one, to share your love - to be your hands and feet in the world.
