Week 11 - THE PRAYER OF JESUS
November 8-14
John 16:5–18:40
Week 11 brings us even closer to the cross, and we get to hear something remarkable—Jesus praying. He knows what lies ahead: betrayal, arrest, suffering, and death. Yet His attention remains on those He loves. He promises the coming of the Holy Spirit, encourages His disciples to take heart because He has overcome the world, and then turns to His Father in prayer. And here's what makes that prayer so personal: Jesus doesn't pray only for the disciples gathered around Him. He also prays for those who will come to believe through their message. That includes us.
As the story moves forward, we see a striking contrast. Jesus prays for unity, truth, and faithfulness among His followers, then willingly steps forward to be arrested. Peter, who had promised to stand by Him, denies even knowing Him. And Jesus, standing before Pilate, speaks of a kingdom unlike any earthly kingdom. When Pilate asks, “What is truth?” he is standing face-to-face with the One who came to reveal it. Through it all, Jesus remains faithful, even when those around Him struggle, fail, or turn away.
Take the readings a day at a time, Sunday through Friday, and remember that these are more than events from long ago. Jesus prayed for people like you and me. What does it mean to know that He cares so deeply for you? Where are you facing trouble and need to hear Him say, “Take heart”? Are there places where fear, pride, or the desire to fit in make it difficult to stand for Him? As you read, bring those struggles honestly to Jesus. Listen to His words, take comfort in His prayers, and ask Him to help you live with the same love, courage, and faithfulness He demonstrated.
As the story moves forward, we see a striking contrast. Jesus prays for unity, truth, and faithfulness among His followers, then willingly steps forward to be arrested. Peter, who had promised to stand by Him, denies even knowing Him. And Jesus, standing before Pilate, speaks of a kingdom unlike any earthly kingdom. When Pilate asks, “What is truth?” he is standing face-to-face with the One who came to reveal it. Through it all, Jesus remains faithful, even when those around Him struggle, fail, or turn away.
Take the readings a day at a time, Sunday through Friday, and remember that these are more than events from long ago. Jesus prayed for people like you and me. What does it mean to know that He cares so deeply for you? Where are you facing trouble and need to hear Him say, “Take heart”? Are there places where fear, pride, or the desire to fit in make it difficult to stand for Him? As you read, bring those struggles honestly to Jesus. Listen to His words, take comfort in His prayers, and ask Him to help you live with the same love, courage, and faithfulness He demonstrated.
Daily Videos
We also have a short intro video to accompany each daily reading. Use the links below to play the video on YouTube.