Theme: Unity
Can we disagree politically and love unconditionally? I think the only way to disagree politically is to love unconditionally. If someone must agree with us for us to love them, then we will only love those who agree with us. Unfortunately, most of us tend to follow path of least resistance rather than doing the hard work of loving someone who disagrees with us. Maybe this is why Jesus prayed for the protection of the unity of the Church. Jesus knew people and Jesus knew people tend to disagree. And Jesus knew when people disagreed, they often split. If we are not careful, the political climate of our country and fear can split the church. The big question for us all is will we allow temporary political systems and fear to divide us? Or will we opt for something better, an eternal Kingdom and love that Jesus offers. A candidate will win or lose in November based on the votes of American citizens. The Church will win or lose based on how we behave from now until then and afterwards. As the Church, we must not allow anything or anyone divide us. For those who follow Jesus, be reminded that the hope of the world is not in a political party, but in Jesus Christ. And may we do the hard work of disagreeing politically, but loving unconditionally.
Scripture: Ephesians 6:12, John 17:20-21 (NIV)
"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them 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."
Prayer: Unity
“Heavenly Father, make us one so we can influence many. In Jesus' Name, Amen"