The Unity Of The Spirit Bonds Us In Peace
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. Ephesians 4:2-3
How can we followers of Jesus stay unified in our current cultural climate? Our politics have become especially polarizing resulting in division in communities, workplaces, education, and in families. The constant access to what is a 24/7 news cycle and social media platforms has fueled and heightened the tension.
We can certainly have differences of opinion, but these differences have, in some situations, led to insults and name calling on social media platforms and other media platforms that share individual opinion. Have these divisions even infected our churches?
Jesus witnessed similar division in His community and likely within those who were following Jesus. So, I ask myself this question, “How can followers of Jesus stay unified in our current cultural climate?”
I turn to Paul’s message to the Ephesians, chapter 4, which in my Bible is titled “Unity in the body of Christ”. Here Paul reminds us that unity begins with each of us as individuals. Individuals seeking God above all else. As followers of Jesus, we are called to live our lives with a Christ-like spirit and character. Verse 1 of this chapter tells us we are to walk in a manner worthy of the calling we’ve received from God.
As humans we share a trait that has us picking sides and falling into some form of political and social ideology. But when we make any ideology into “idol worship,” we do so at the risk of shutting out our faith. A faith that holds that Jesus is the only authentic source of truth.
Paul explains how we are to live the life worthy of our faith in Christ alone. First, we are to be humble, that is knowing our strengths and weaknesses. Not comparing ourselves to others but to Christ. Then we are to be gentle – applied here to mean having the strength of self-control, not wanting to dominate in a way that tears other down. And, we are to be patient, even when we are frustrated or in disagreement with others.
In short, unity is attainable when our hearts and minds are first set on God and His Kingdom. Jesus prayed for unity even among His disciples: “that they all may be one; Father, just as you are in me, and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me,” John 17:21.
How have you engaged with your family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues lately? Let us seek to first remember Christ’s examples of humility, gentleness, and patience. Keep Christ first, then apply these same traits for engagement and communication allowing us to love those with whom we disagree.
Lord God, grant us the patience to work together. Let us seek understanding and compassion as we strive to bring the light of Your Kingdom to the world. Holy Spirit be with us to keep our hearts on focus and help us to draw others to seek to know You. In Jesus’ name we pray, AMEN.