Dear Partner in Preaching, The first verse in this week’s passage is one of my favorites in John’s Gospel, and maybe even in all of the Scriptures. I know, I know, there are so many other great verses from John’s remarkable story: “In the beginning was the Word….”, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us,” “For God so loved the world…,” “In my house are many mansions…,” and more. Why, then, do I love this verse? Simply because in it we hear Jesus praying for us. Yes. Jesus…nearly two thousand years ago…is praying…for us – incredible! Let’s set the scene. It’s Thursday evening, the night on which...