That We Would Be One

Yesterday was world communion Sunday. This is a day in which Christians across the globe celebrate our unity in Christ.

Several years ago, a church I was serving had a joint service with a Korean new church development. If you have ever been to a worship service like that, then you know the potential for tremendous energy. That day I noticed an abiding sense of joy present in the room. It was a joy that comes from spending time with those with whom we share a common faith. I also noticed a breath of hope – a hope that one day all God’s children will live in peace. And, there was a palpable sense of God’s love present – love poured out for all of us.

So often in life, we dwell on the issues that divide us. We focus on our differences. Or we focus on what we are against. When we do so, we are left feeling angry, bitter, or depressed. On the other hand, when we personally get to know those who are different, we often find a deep thread of commonality. We are more alike than we sometimes think.

In the Gospel of John, chapter 17, in one of his most fervent intercessions, Jesus prays that we would be one.

Let us pray: Creative God, we remember today that you invented all the colors of the rainbow in their infinite vibrancies and hues. You have called into being more than a million species of animals; and you made us in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. We praise you for the beautifully diverse world in which we live and find our place. Today, we pray for those who may seem unlike us. Help us to love them as you love them. Fill us with your grace and peace, that these gifts would be ours to share. We pray in the name of Christ who unites us. Amen.