Scripture
“I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— 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.” — John 17:22–23
Observation
The “glory” Jesus received from the Father wasn’t just dazzling heavenly splendor—it was the radiant beauty of God’s character revealed most fully in the cross. At Calvary, Jesus displayed the heart of God: self-giving love, humility, and costly obedience. That’s the glory He has already given to us—not as a trophy to admire, but as a calling to live.
And here’s the remarkable part: this glory produces unity. When we live cross-shaped lives, pride dies, grudges lose power, and the barriers between us crumble. Our oneness in Christ becomes a living testimony to the watching world that Jesus truly came from the Father and that His love for us is as deep as the Father’s love for Him.
Notice—Jesus doesn’t say, “Then the world will know if you have perfect preaching, clever programs, or an amazing worship band.” He says the world will know through the love and unity of His people. Our relationships are the loudest sermon most people will ever hear.
Application
Unity doesn’t happen because we all have the same opinions or personalities—it happens when we share the same cross-shaped love. That means I can’t cling to my pride or hold on to bitterness if I want to live in the unity Jesus prayed for. The more I embrace the self-giving love of the cross, the more I will naturally move toward others instead of away from them.
And if I want people in my life to believe Jesus is real, I can’t rely on impressive programs or polished performances to convince them. Those may attract attention, but only love will change hearts. The question I must ask is: Does my love for other believers preach the gospel louder than my words ever could?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for the gift of Your glory—the beauty of Your love revealed through the cross. Help me to live each moment rooted in Your love and to cherish unity as You do. Show me where pride or unforgiveness keeps me from being one with my brothers and sisters. Teach me to live in such a way that my life tells the world, “Jesus is real, and His love is here.” Amen.
