December 11

I ask on their behalf. I do not ask on behalf of the world, but on behalf of those You have given Me; for they are Yours. — John 17:9 BSB

How often we long for someone with strong faith to pray for us, feeling comforted when we believe they are carrying our burdens in their prayers. But there is One whose prayers never fail—Jesus Himself. His entire mission at God's right hand is to intercede for us. When we bring our burdens to Him, we are stepping into His appointed role as our advocate, with the sure promise that He will act on our behalf. Knowing that we have a great High Priest in Jesus, the Son of God, let us approach the throne of grace with confidence, trusting that we will find help in our time of need.

Like a golden censer glowing,
Filled with burning odors rare,
All my heart is upward flowing,
In a cloud of ceaseless prayer.

O'er the heavenly altar bending,
Jesus interceding stands,
All our prayers to heaven ascending,
Reach the Father through His hands.