Thoughts: Jesus prayed for two things that Christians continue to struggle for- protection and unity. Perhaps He knew we would struggle and wrestle for these two things that continue to tear at the edges of the Church, so He prayed for them. It is especially important to note that Jesus publicly prayed these things in the hearing of his disciples as one of the last things he did on this earth. Some say this was another part of his prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane where he prayed so hard drops of blood fell from him. The unity and protection of his children-his disciples- his little brothers and sisters was important to Christ.
The protection and unity of the Church finds power in the name of Jesus Christ- the name given Him by the Father. Jesus means the Lord saves, while Christus is a title meaning the anointed one. We do not need to be afraid to mention the name of Jesus- for it is our power and strength that protects us and unites us.
If Jesus prayed for these things- we should also pray for and work for these things.
Prayer: Lord, protect and unite your Church by the power of your name.
Christ praying in the Garden of Gethsemane- Gethsemane was the place of olive presses- where different olives were pressed and united into one oil container. So we are pressed and made to be one. It is harder for the church to be united in times of real peace and prosperity. 
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