Week of January 17, 2025
“1I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, 2 with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, 3 endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:1-3, NKJV)
The Apostle Paul encourages us to live in a way that reflects our calling as followers of Jesus – humble, patient, and loving.
In a world often marked by division and strife, the church stands as a beacon of hope. Our strength is not just in our individual faith, but in our collective unity. Paul reminds us that maintaining unity requires effort. It means extending grace when someone falls short. It’s choosing peace over conflict.
When we are unified, we reflect the heart of Jesus to a world that is watching us. Unity doesn’t mean we all look, act, or think exactly the same. It means we are united in purpose and mission and that is to glorify God Almighty and make Him known to the world.
Maybe we should ask how am I contributing to the unity of the church? Is there someone I need to forgive and show grace to?
Commit to unity, for when we do we will see His blessings poured out upon us and His church.
God Bless, Pastor Rick