In the mountains a blocked highway can mean a massive detour. If someone closed one of these roads on a whim, many would be justifiably angry. If, however, the closure was necessitated by a washed out bridge, the decision represents a legitimate concern to save lives. The first decision intends to deprive us; the second one intends our well-being.

On that infamous night of Christ’s betrayal and arrest, somewhere between the Upper Room and the Garden of Gethsemane Jesus had an intimate conversation with his Father. Here, recorded in chapter 17, he makes a request that reaches down through the centuries to you and me today. Amazingly, his request wasn’t to be rescued from death but rather that his death would have maximum impact.

This passionate prayer shows the tremendous love and care that Jesus had for his disciples. He prayed to his Father that these disciples might be kept, protected and held together in unity. He was concerned that they would be discouraged by his death and so he asks his Father to give them the gift of joy. Jesus knew that it would now be up to his disciples to spread the good news of the gospel throughout the world.

Chapter 17 starts with Jesus praying for himself, then for his disciples, and ends with his passionate prayer for all who believe in him. He gives priority to praying for their unity. Jesus knew that one of Satan’s frequent tools of battle is conflict. Jesus wanted his followers to stay together; to exhibit such brotherly love that the outside world would be attracted to their lifestyle.

When Jesus is arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane, Peter tries to stop the mob that has surrounded his master with torches and lanterns and weapons in their fists. He draws his sword – it was not unusual for men to carry swords or knives on their belts in those days – and he strikes, shearing away the right ear of the high priest’s servant.

The story of Peter’s betrayal of Jesus is well known. So are all the mistakes he made (like losing his nerve and his faith when he tried to walk on water) and the mistakes and blunders all the disciples made.

It’s easy to judge from a safe distance.

Observe the turning of day to night and you will be inspired to poetry. Watch as summer turns to fall and you will see balance. Be awestruck as storms rise up and then amazingly are stilled. In each of these instances there is an author and a creator, the Lord Almighty, who is honoured in this psalm of praise.