Pew Bulletin
Fr Vijay’s sermon on John 17:1-11
A marathon runner once shared how, near the end of a long and exhausting race, his strength gave away. His legs felt like lead, and he was ready to stop. But then he heard a familiar voice from the crowd, his coach shouting, “I’m with you! Don’t stop now. Finish strong!” That voice didn’t remove the pain, but it gave him strength to keep going and cross the finish line.
In John 17:1-11, we are invited into a deeply intimate and powerful moment. Jesus, knowing that His hour has come, lifts His eyes to heaven and prays. This is not a prayer of fear or defeat, but of confidence, purpose, and love. Standing at the threshold of the cross, Jesus speaks to the Father and prays not only for Himself but also for His disciples. Through his prayer, we receive encouragement for our own journey of faith. Let us reflect on three important truths from this passage.
1. We see life lived for God’s glory.
Jesus begins by saying, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your son so that the son may glorify you.” Even as he faces suffering and death, His focus is not on Himself but on glorifying the Father. His life has always been fulfilling God’s purpose.
This challenges us to examine our own lives. Often, we seek comfort, success, or recognition. But Jesus calls us to something higher to live for God’s glory. This means trusting God not only in joyful moments but also in times of struggle. Think of a stained-glass window. From the outside, it may look dark and unclear. But when light shines through it, the beauty and colors become visible. In the same way, when God’s light shines through our lives even through our brokenness His glory is revealed. So, the question is not, “How can I avoid difficulty?” but How can God be glorified through my life today? When we live with that perspective, even our challenges gain meaning and purpose.
2. We are reminded of the gift of eternal life.
Jesus continues, “This is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.” Eternal life is not just about what happens after death, it begins now. It is a living, growing relationship with God.
To “know” God here means more than intellectual knowledge. It is personal, relational, and transformative. It is walking with God daily, speaking with Him in prayer, and experiencing His presence in every part of life.
Let me share another simple illustration. A person may know about a famous musician, know their songs, achievements, and history, but that is very different from personally knowing that person, speaking with them, and having a relationship with them. In the same way, Christianity is not just about knowing facts about God; it is about knowing Him personally. This truth is deeply encouraging. It means we are never alone. In our joys and in our struggles, God is with us. He is not distant, He is near, present, and active in our lives.
3. Assurance in Jesus’ intercession and protection
One of the most comforting parts of this passage is that Jesus prays for His disciples. He says, “they are in the world,” acknowledging the reality that life will not be easy. There will be trails, pressures, and uncertainties.
Yet, He does not ask the Father to take them out of the world. Instead, He entrusts them to God’s care. He places them into the Father’s hands for protection, guidance, and strength. This truth speaks directly to us today. We, too, are in the world facing responsibilities, challenges, and sometimes hidden burdens. But we are not alone. Just as Jesus prayed for His disciples, He continues to intercede for us.
Imagine a child learning to ride a bicycle. The child may feel nervous, afraid of falling. But the parent runs alongside, holding the seat, guiding and encouraging. Even when the child cannot see the parent’s hand, it is still there, providing support. In the same way, God is holding us, guiding us, and strengthening us, even when we are not fully aware of it.
In Conclusion
Dear friends, this passage reminds us that we are deeply loved, known, and cared for. We are called to live for God’s glory, invited into a personal relationship with Him, and assured of His constant protection.
So, when you feel tired in your journey, remember the voice that calls you forward. When you feel uncertain, remember that you belong to God. When you feel alone, remember that Christ is praying for you.
Lift your eyes, as Jesus did. Trust in the father’s presence. Walk in His purpose. And hold on to his promises. Keep going. Finish strong. Because the One who called you is faithful, and He is with you every step of the way.
May God bless us all. Amen.