Eager to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit- just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call- one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.  Ephesians 4:3-6 (ESV)

Discord and dissension are everywhere around us- in politics, culture, values and more. The Church should be different from the world, however, and Christians should be an example of unity. In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul specifies seven foundational precepts of unity that are sometimes referred to as the seven pillars of the Christian faith- one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father. The first of these, one body, refers to the Church at large- one unified body of believers, not divided institutions. We should not judge those whose dress, music or worship may be very different from our own. Because of the work of Christ on the cross, we are connected to one another through Him. The distinctions we make over non-essentials are the fabrication of people, not God. (Galatians 3:28) At heart, if we are Christ followers, we should be unified in purpose and in our love for one another.

Dear Lord,

It’s so easy to focus on our differences, but You call us to unity. Thank You for the example You gave us as You walked through the world and changed people’s lives. Help us to see people as You do, and to share Your love with those who don’t know You.

I love You, Lord.

Amen.