Prayed For, Sent Out

“Jesus didn’t pray for big crowds or big budgets—He prayed that we would be one.”

At the heart of John 17:20–26 is a profound truth: Jesus prayed for us. Not just in general, but specifically—for our unity, for our love, and for our witness. He didn’t ask the Father to make us powerful or popular. He asked that we would be so deeply connected to one another, and so rooted in God’s love, that the world would see Him in us. This unity isn’t about perfect agreement or polished appearances—it’s about staying together in grace, even when it’s hard.

For a small, older congregation choosing the uncertain road of revitalization, this prayer speaks directly to the moment. Jesus does not measure success the way the world does. He isn’t looking for numbers or status. He’s looking for love that lasts. Every act of care, every moment of forgiveness, every decision to keep showing up—that’s glory. That’s witness. That’s the kind of church that changes lives, even if it never makes headlines.

So the call is simple, and sacred: live the prayer. Be the answer Jesus hoped for. Love each other well. Don’t let fear or fatigue have the final word. You may not be the biggest church—but you can be a faithful one. And that, in the eyes of Christ, is more than enough.