The word “unity” has been pounding on my heart and my mind recently. The first name of the country we are blessed to be born and live in says it all: UNITED States of America.
Just a few minutes reading the newspaper or watching the television news, though,and division seems to be the central theme–from divisive political parties, race relations, sports teams, schools, churches, even Christian denominations. How discouraging.
I was so encouraged this past weekend to be part of The Response South Carolina (www.theresponsesc.com) event, held this past Saturday at the North Charleston Coliseum. What a refreshing time of gathering at least 4,000 people to pray for our nation, our state, our city, our churches, our schools, our families, our court system, our media and arts, and our own hearts. This day of prayer was modeled after similar events in Texas and Louisiana. No political parties or denominations or even names were mentioned from the stage. Only God was glorified.
South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley showed much courage to allow and orchestrate such an event and even kicked off the event with a prayer. It revived our hearts and spirit to focus and what we have in common, not what pulls us apart.
“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 in one hope when you were called–one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over and through all and in all.” –Ephesians 4:3-6 NIV
May we all be challenged today and every day to find the unity in the UNITED States of America and in our own commUNITY! Let’s unite in love.
Reflect
–What circumstances in your life are you united or divided on with others? Please comment.
–How may your response be different? Please comment.
Renew
–“My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely Christ, in whom are hidden all treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” –Colossians 2:2 NIV
–“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” –Matthew 5:9 NIV
Recharge
–Consider three people this week with whom you will extend the bond of peace.
Resource
Danya Jordan
Danya, This is speaks so honestly with what is going on in the world. Thank you for highlighting our commonality, our unity, through this post! Sometimes we only see differences not how we are similar. Thank you! This is just what my heart needed to hear this morning!
Thank you, sweet friend. You are wise. Love you!