The goal is for all of them to become one heart and mind—
Just as you, Father, are in me and I in you,
So they might be one heart and mind with us. John 17:21
This is the second time Jesus has said this in this chapter. He is leaving this world and the only Jesus the world will see from this moment on is Jesus in His disciples. It is extremely important that his disciples know and do what He and the Father would do to fulfill God’s redemptive purpose for this world. We are to be one in heart and mind with Him and the Father.
One in heart and mind – what does that mean? That we all dress alike, that we think alike, have the same taste in food or fun? Does it mean that every Christian is a copy of the other? That makes no sense when you look at Peter, James and John, or Paul and Barnabas. It makes no sense when you look at different cultures and ethnic groups. Jesus continually calls us to be “one” with Him and the Father, but what does that look like? We are to be One in heart and mind for the purpose of the gospel and kingdom of God. One in heart in mind in love for a lost world. One in heart and mind in our love for one another. I guess that answers it – ONE IN LOVE – the most difficult but redeeming and rewarding oneness!!
Here we go again, Father. Remind us of what Christlikeness really is and what it looks like – love in action! Jesus, help us to know what love looks like in different situations. Show us when to be gentle and compassionate and when to stand firm and let truth take its course. Show us when to hold on and when to let go. Teach us, Father, how to live and love in the mundane and routine of each day. I realize today, the cost of love is DEATH! Death to all things but Jesus and the will and love of the Father for His sheep, both in and out of the fold. One day and one step at a time is all we can ask. Step into the whirlwind and routine of our daily lives and give us strength to be unified in heart and mind with You.
Journey with Joyce 