Lenten Reflection - John 17: 20-26 by Lauren Greenwade
20 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 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. 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— 23 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.24 “Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory,the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world. 25 “Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. 26 I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them.” John 17: 20-26
The timing of this passage of Love, so close to the day of LOVE (tomorrow’s Valentine’s Day) is not lost on me. We are being bombarded by ads and commercials from the material world with their messages of “buy me”, “spend money on me," “you will feel guilty if you do not spend lots of money on the one you love;” and other guilt ridden suggestions. Believe me, I am all for sharing love, giving love, and receiving love; however, we need to focus on the true gift of LOVE. The love that God has for all of us. The love that was demonstrated repeatedly and graciously through Jesus.
Love songs, poems of love, letters of love, hugs, and kisses are all truly valuable and truly personal giving of yourself to those you adore and love. I believe these are more meaningful acts of love, and reflect more of the message of Jesus. He went through the world sharing the love of God through his acts of acceptance, service and healing. We should focus on these things, by simplifying the “Grandness” of special occasions, with more meaningful tributes straight from the heart. Although, chocolate is nice…
Sending prayers for much peace and love for each of you!