Holy Week Meditations: A God Who Prays for Me

I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me because of their testimony. John 17:20

Friends who pray are a special gift. To have those who intercede on my behalf, who come into the throne room of God to lift my name, leaves me undone at times. Older women who kneel on refurbished knees and fold arthritic hands to pray for my words, my family, my heart – a blessing immeasurable. Peers who whisper prayers for productivity, patience, and perseverance as they sit in car lines, wander grocery aisles, and prepare dinners in their homes – an unspeakable treasure. Family members who know the deepest hurts and beseech the Father for healing – a precious gift.

Friends who pray for us are wrapped up gifts of grace, aren’t they?

Jesus, who calls us friend, prays for us. In fact, as He neared the crucifixion, prepared for Passover with his disciples, washed their feet and prayed over them … then He prayed for us.

For all who will ever believe in me …

Take a moment to consider that … and find yourself humbled, awed, and quite possibly broken.

We have a God who calls us friend and, like a true friend, prays for us, intercedes on our behalf before the Father.

My prayer for all of them is that they will be one, just as you and I are one, Father – that just as you are in me and I am in you, so they will be in us, and the world will believe you sent me. John 17:21 NLT

His prayer for us – unity. That we would be one, in Him through Him, and for His glory.

So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, so you should love each other. YOur love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples. John 13:34-35 NLT

His command to us – love. Love each other, as He loved us, so the world would see and know.

Perhaps you are in the midst of a difficult relationship right now. Maybe you have harbored bitterness or unforgiveness in your heart. We all face struggles with people and feelings and situations.

May I just invite you to come to your friend, Jesus, and share those burdens? Remind you that He loves you and He hears? Encourage you that He prays for you and has since time began? And may I, this Monday before Easter, in 2012, ask you if you will trust Him … and choose unity and love?

He prays for you.