On the evening before Jesus was crucified, He shared what we call the Last Supper with His disciples. During this time, He “ showed them the full extent of his love” (John 13:1b).

John goes on to devote four chapters to what Jesus shared with His disciples during that supper, finishing with a lengthy prayer, which concludes with a prayer that includes all of us today: “My prayer is not for them (his disciples) alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 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. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me” (17:20-23).

Twice in this prayer Jesus makes it clear that one of the greatest factors for the world believing in Him would be the unity they see among believers.

This is dear to my heart, since it is one of the primary purposes of the Church of God Reformation Movement — which we are affiliated with ­— as well as the source of the unique and strong bond that we have among most of the churches in this community. This includes “Helping Hands — Healing Hearts”, which is a joint ministry of many of the same churches, that shares the love of Jesus with others in our community that have material, mental, emotional and spiritual needs.

Through Jesus’ example, we also see that praying for that unity is a priority, and we are encouraged to unite together to do so! The fulfillment of Jesus’ promise of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost was, in large part, a result of all the disciples constantly praying together — as Jesus had told them to do.

Next Thursday (May 3) gives us all an opportunity to follow Jesus’ example and command to join together in prayer “#PRAY4UNITY” — this year’s theme for the National Day of Prayer, which will be observed around the country.

As usual, the local gathering will be at Farmin Park, from noon to 1 p.m.. A worship band will prepare hearts for this time of prayer, beginning at 11:30. We invite and encourage you to join us — and thousands of others around the country — as we unite to pray for unity! And then we will all rejoice together when we see the wonderful results of united prayer!

Pastor Jon L. Pomeroy can be reached at Sandpoint Church of God, 221 S. Division Ave., Sandpoint; by calling 208-263-6629; or by email at info@sandpointchurchofGod.org.