Jesus’ great desire is a concern of love – for us to be united in love in all that we do.
Two days ago, I attended the recollection for all the service team for the upcoming Eastern CFC Conference… And spotted the following group of YFCs in attendance. It was then that I had a realization turned worry that sank into my heart – that this year, Ontario and its Areas were hosting at 4 Conferences. In all 4, no matter who the host Area is or ministry we repped, YFCs would be asked to serve. On top of regular activities and YFC priorities (God, Family, School, Needed Work, then service – in that order), this is a lot to do!
The Gospels for the past few days have been revealing to me, especially in this morning’s Gospel (John 17_20-26). The revelation that Jesus, has great desires for us. A revelation of the “whys” and “how” behind all the “whats” we are being asked to do. For one, that in all things, we are to be in communion with Him and with one another. This is what he ardently prays to the Father that, second, in his desire for the world, in seeing us, may believe in Him (John 17).
We are never alone, we are One in Christ and with one another. This is how Jesus looks toward the future – A hope, that we all may remain in love which unifies. Because anything done without love and without unity is not deserving credibility, for everything and absolutely everything, must be done in charitable and selfless love (1 Corinthians 16). Am I in love, and loving in all that I do? Out of this love, am I growing in virtue (and is really worry for me, really) – in patience with others, compassion, sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, etc. – in my service, mission?
Jesus’ great desires is the right kind of worry. Beyond tasks that need to be done, His worry, which is a concern of love for us, is priority above all things. Do I take the time to really listen to the desires and worries of Christ?
Christ blesses me with the following understanding in my prayer time with a peace that is beyond understanding (Philippians 4). We can continue to give of ourselves, go out of ourselves and give our lives fully despite our limitations (#ChristUnlimited) in service and in mission if we remain “in Him” (John 17), in love in all we do.
