The purpose of ransom is reunion. Without reunion, ransom has been poured out in vain. Concerning the One who paid the infinite price of His life for us it is written, "He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied" (Isaiah 53:11).

John 17 records the prayer Christ offered just before Gethsemane. He had met with His disciples in the upper room, had washed their feet, and had given them the emblems of His sacrifice. Around the table He had talked with them about His going away and His plan to come again so they could all live together forever.

Before going into the Garden for His final struggle with the powers of darkness, He paused, and gathering around Him that little band of chosen ones, He poured out His heart in prayer. The climax comes in verse 24: "Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am."

In all the host of the redeemed there are no duplicates. God "needs" each one of us, He can't afford to lose you or me.

Jesus wants you for His friend. He wants you so much that He paid your ransom. It cost Him everything. He gave His life because He wants you. Listen again as He prays for you individually: "Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am"

This was Jesus' prayer before Gethsemane. It moved Him in that hour of supreme sacrifice at Calvary. It filled His thoughts on the resurrection morning. It was His heart burden at the ascension. It has been His prayer throughout His mediatorial work. And it is His final request just before He returns. He wants us with Him. If you and I are willing, He will get us there. Ransom will bring reunion. And it will be forever!