Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. Ephesians 4:2-6
It seems completely natural and easy for us to find our differences. There are so many! Where did you grow up? Where did you go to school? What is your age? Background? Ethnicity? Political views? The list of possible dividing lines becomes enormous quickly. What we see in our world today are the many ways that dividing lines and differences between people can become highlighted in such a way that it consumes our perspectives, attitudes, and our behavior.
As believers in Christ, we have been taught that the world does not have the capability to see truth and reality as they really are. Spiritual truth cannot be seen by those who refuse to let the Holy Spirit into their lives. It comes as no surprise that we see hate and polarization happening throughout the world. When we look at others and only see differences and dividers, those who are different from us become the enemy.
But…
Even in a world full of chaos, we are the children of God who are called to unity and peace. We are the peacemakers. We serve the Prince of Peace. We are charged in our everyday lives to, “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” This verse reminds us that there are just as many similarities between us as there are differences. This charge for unity is especially given to us who are called by the name “Christian.” We are the “Christ ones” who recognize that under the reign of God, we are all the same humanity. All in need of a Savior. All called to Salvation. All aliens in a foreign world. All waiting for the perfect world that is to come.
Father, help us to foster unity and peace as we look forward to your return when everything will be made right and perfect. Amen.
Pastor David
