I often wonder why life is such a struggle.  It should not surprise me in light of all I have studied, believe and taught but somehow I still get surprised.  I read Jesus' prayer in John 17 and it becomes apparent again that it is no mystery why the struggle continues.  Believers are "out of" the world, living "in" the world and sent "to" the world.  No wonder it gets confusing once in a while!  No wonder there is tension!  No wonder that I don't feel like I belong!  No wonder there is antagonism!  We are ambassadors, aliens and apprentices all at the same time.  Talk about an interesting life.  Here is the wonderful part...Jesus knows and intercedes for us.  He has lived in this mess and is with us by His Spirit.  He has asked the Father to protect us, that we might be one, that the world (we are from) might believe.  Be encouraged today; God knows, God cares and God can do what He has promised!