Scripture: Psalm 133:1
How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity!
Thought for the Day: On this day in 1053, the Normans defeated the army of Pope Leo IX in the Battle of Civitate in Southern Italy. There was no single or simple reason for this battle, but there was clearly an ugliness and bigotry between these two groups of people. There are so many examples of Christ-followers who felt the need to destroy other Christ-followers. I’m sure in the moment their explanations sounded justified, but don’t you think if Christians are going to make any inroads into the world of non-Christians, it needs to begin with Christians not being so hateful to each other. Oh sure, we can disagree. We can have good debates. But at the end of the day, it would be helpful if we could be respectful, compassionate and loving…especially among those who have also taken the name of Christ. A demonstration of grace-filled unity (not the same as uniformity) might be a bit more inviting to those who are seeking something to nourish their spiritual yearnings.
Prayer: I can be quite opinionated, O Lord, but help me keep even my strongest held opinions slightly behind your gift of unconditional love that is extended to even those who happen to hold the exact opposite opinion of mine. Amen.
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
This Thursday and Friday
