What’s Your Message?

This writing thing is an interesting process.

I used to worry about what I’d write. Sometimes I’d build a plan, figuring I’d worry less if I knew what I was going to write about. But often I found myself torturing the plan because it didn’t make sense when I actually started writing.

These days I begin with some reading, and I borrow Becky’s prayer that I’ll let Jesus speak. Then I write the words that ask to be written. I don’t know how that works.

I’m often surprised by sources of inspiration, but when I keep an open heart something usually appears. Today I’m thinking through this passage sent by my friend Clark Osborn. It’s part of Jesus’ final prayer for His disciples.

“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one—I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” (John 17:20-23)

Jesus didn’t pray that his disciples would preach correct theology or lead with wisdom. He didn’t mention solid doctrine, social justice, political action or any of the activities and concerns that seem so central to us.

On His last night with His friends, Jesus prayed they would have the same relationship with each other that He had with His Father. He prayed for complete unity among them, because that unity would show Jesus to the world. Jesus knew their love for each other would be their most powerful sermon.

I don’t think that’s changed.

Please leave a comment here.

Want to receive free updates?
Click below to get Bouncing Back
delivered directly to your inbox.