July 12, 2023
Wednesday
Unity Yet Diversity
Ephesians 4:3-6
3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”
Nature loves diversity, but nature also loves unity. There are many examples of groups of individuals functioning as one: ants walking in formation, flocks of starlings (and schools of fish) flowing effortlessly as one, Canadian geese flying in a perfect V-formation. Nature loves diversity but seems to rely on unity to accomplish what is good for all.
Scripture supports the idea of diversity and unity. In Ephesians 4:3-6, the apostle Paul appeals for unity in the Church (verse 3) by highlighting the word “one” seven times: one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God. But then, in verse 7, he goes from unity to diversity. Each Christian has been given grace (gifts) to accomplish his or her part in achieving unity (verses 7-13). Just as a flock of geese achieves its migration goal by flying in formation, so the Church achieves its maturity goal by working together in unity.
Ask God today: “What is my part, Lord, in building up Your Church? What grace have you given me? How can I promote the unity of the Body?” Let your unique gifts strengthen the unity of God’s people.
A point to ponder…
Believers are never told to become one; we already are one and are expected to act like it.
Joni Eareckson Tada
Read the Bible through in a year
I love you!!!
© 2000-2023 B. Michael Goerlich