Scripture: John 17:21
I pray they will be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. I pray that they also will be in us, so that the world will believe that you sent me.
Thought for the Day: This is the first verse from the scripture that will be the basis of Sunday’s sermon. Shortly before his arrest, Jesus offered this prayer. He was speaking to his disciples, though I believe he was also speaking to those of us who are his disciples today. “I pray they will be one, Father…” sounds incredible, but it is proof that even the prayers of Jesus did not create an immediate reality. We live at a time when social and political structures are about as divided as ever (there are a few examples in American history where we were probably more divided), and the church is divided as well. So much of what the world learns from the church is from its bickering that leads to brokenness. It is understandable why so many have no desire to connect with the church. This is why I continue to celebrate and emphasize our mission as a congregation. To put love first in all things will not guarantee unity on all matters, but it will demonstrate unity when it comes to the unconditional love of God. Even more so, it has the potential of showing the world how to disagree and still demonstrate love fully. It is hard work. Retreating to the camps of like-mindednesss is the easy way, but we are people who by our confession in Jesus Christ have said we willingly take up the cross and follow him. That is not the easy road!
Prayer: I want to follow you, Lord, and I still want it easy and uncomplicated. Give me help, O Gracious One, as I struggle with what it means to be faithful. Encourage me as I continue to strive toward the ways of Jesus – denying myself as I embrace him and the cross. Amen.
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