Daily Bible Reading–January 2021 God's Word of LifeEsimerkki

January 24

Introduction

Many Christians are observing today as Ecumenical Sunday. Today’s reading is a prayer often referred to as Jesus’s “High Priestly Prayer,” and it appears only in John’s Gospel. After Jesus’s final discourse with his disciples, and prior to his betrayal and arrest, he addresses God in prayer. Jesus acknowledges that he has completed the work God sent him to do, and he intercedes on behalf of his disciples and all future believers. 

Today's Scripture Reading 

John 17:1-26

Today’s Key Verse: John 17:20, 21a

“I pray not only for them, but also for those who believe in me because of their message. I pray that they may all be one.”

Reflect

Because Jesus prays that all who believe be united by their faith in him, the prayer serves as a call to Christian unity. What does Jesus ask of God (verses 1, 5, 11, 15, 17, 20-21)? What does knowing that Jesus prayed for you mean to you?

Pray

Dear Jesus, you came to break down walls that divide us. Unite us in heart and mind to follow you and give glory to God. In faith, I pray in your holy name. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Ecumenical dialogues

Tomorrow’s Reading

Acts 9:1-25: Saul, a persecutor of the church, becomes an apostle for the Lord.