"That They May Be One"

Thursday of the Seventh Week of Easter
John 17:20–26

In this tender moment of Jesus’ prayer, we are invited to overhear Jesus' deepest longing—not only for the disciples gathered around him, but for all who would one day believe because of their witness. That includes us. Jesus prays that we may share in the unity that exists within the very heart of God: the communion of love between the Father and the Son.

What’s striking is that Jesus doesn’t pray for uniformity or sameness. Jesus prays for a unity rooted in love—a unity that reveals God’s presence in the world. When we choose patience over irritation, forgiveness over resentment, compassion over indifference, we participate in the very life of God. We become living signs of the love Jesus poured out for us.

This unity is not something we manufacture by effort alone. It is a gift we receive when we allow God’s love to take root in us. Jesus says, “I have given them the glory you gave me.” In other words, Jesus shares with us the very love that binds him to the Father. Our task is simply to let that love shape our words, our choices, and our relationships.

In a world that often feels fractured—families divided, communities strained, and hearts pulled in many directions—Jesus’ prayer becomes both a comfort and a calling. We are not alone in our desire for healing and reconciliation. Christ Himself is praying for us, interceding for us, and empowering us to live as people of unity.

You are invited to reflect today about where in your life is Jesus inviting you to be an instrument of unity, healing, or reconciliation? How might you open your heart more fully to the love Jesus shares with the Father?

Lord Jesus,
you prayed that we may be one in love
as you are one with the Father.
Let your prayer take root in my heart today.
Heal in me what is divided, soften what
is hardened, and strengthen what is weary.
Make me a witness of your love in all I do.
Amen.

This reflection was prepared with the assistance of CoPilot.