Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world. (John 17:24)
The basis for all love is the love that the Father has for us from the very beginning. As Jesus prepared himself for his terrible death on the cross, he was most concerned for those who then believed, and later would believe, in him and his truth-filled message. Therefore, in John chapter 17 he earnestly prays for each of them to the Father.
This is another instance where Jesus demonstrates his sacrificial love for us believers. One might think it natural that Jesus would be most concerned about himself in this awful situation, rather than for others. Even whe Jesus prayed for himself in chapter 17 he said, Now this is eternal life: that they may know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” (verse 3)
So, it would seem that it would be imperative that we show the same love for those who do not yet know the one true God and Jesus Christ His son.
