John chapter 17 records the prayer of Jesus for his disciples shortly before he was arrested and crucified. How did Jesus pray for his disciples at such a critical time? He prayed: “I don’t pray for the world, but for the people you have given me, because they are yours… Holy Father, protect in your name those you have given me, so that they can be one, just as we are… I say these things while still in the world, so that they can be completely filled with my joy… I pray not that you would take them out of the world, but that you would keep them away from the evil one… Make them holy in your truth… I don’t pray only for them, but also for anyone who believes in me through their message, so that all of them can be one…”
Jesus did not pray that his followers live peaceful lives filled with friendly neighbours; he prays that the be made holy in the truth. He did not pray that they live in safety; he prayed that they be kept from the influence of the evil one while they are facing the dangers of the world. Most of all he prayed that they would live lives which draw others people’s attention to God. He prayed that through their complete love and unity living in Christ the world would understand who Jesus was and why he was sent to earth.
If you sign up to become a follower of Jesus, the fringe benefits do not include an easy life. Instead, if you are really passionate about being a follower you will probably live a dangerous and high-risk life. Bad things will happen. You will encounter many difficulties and problems. But you will also get to experience the amazing love and unity that is available only to people who are fully committed to Jesus.