In John 17-18, we read a prayer Jesus gave on behalf of his disciples, knowing that his crucifixion was fast approaching. “Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one… I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word… that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them”. This prayer was for all disciples, including us, that God would keep and love them. This thoughtfulness at a time of immense pressure really demonstrates Jesus’ true character and love for others.
This care for others even extended to those present at his trial, as Jesus patiently explains to them his purpose in life, “for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice”.
Such a stark contrast to the way Solomon viewed the world, “All is vanity.” We have a hope, thanks to the love that God showed to Jesus, and Jesus showed to us, something more than vanity, a relationship with God. Even when “all things are full of weariness”, that hope remains. Let us cling to that hope, allowing it to strengthen and motivate us, just as it did for Jesus.