Sunday’s gospel reading (John 17:20-26) invites us into Jesus’ last prayer before his arrest. This wasn’t just for the disciples with him, but for all believers – including us. He prayed for unity, saying, “that all may be one.”
For the disciples that night, unity may have seemed impossible. Judas was about to betray Jesus, Peter would deny him, and the rest faced uncertainty and fear. Today, things don’t feel much different. Look around – government divides, church conflicts, family arguments. Disunity is everywhere.
But the unity Jesus prayed for isn’t about agreeing on everything or living in perfect harmony. It’s recognizing that we are one in Christ, even if it’s messy. Unity is being part of something bigger than ourselves, a community meant to reflect God’s love. It doesn’t mean there won’t be disagreements, but love is what binds us, showing in how we treat others.
Jesus’ prayer calls us to live out this unity – not perfection, but belonging. When we do, even imperfectly, it becomes a sign of God’s presence in the world.
Unity isn’t simple, but as Jesus prayed for us, we are called to trust God’s love to hold us together through challenges. Where will you begin this week?
- Reflect on relationships: Think about a time when conflict divided your family, church or community. What could you have done differently to encourage love?
- Define unity in Christ: Do you struggle to see yourself as “one” with others who think differently? What can help broaden your view?
- Take action: Reconnect with someone you’ve disagreed with or show kindness to a stranger this week. Small steps show God’s love.
- Examine your community’s impact: Does your church or small group reflect love and unity? What changes could better demonstrate God’s presence?
