Last weekend we finished our KCLC Radio Sermon series. We ended with the hit, “We Are the World.”

Although the song was written in 1985, it conveys a spiritual truth contained within scriptures. This truth reflects the heart and wisdom with God.

Here is that truth: Our personal well-being, our personal futures are tied to the rest of humanity.

We are created to be in community because it is good for us. Life is better when we are in relationship. When we spurn that gift of community, we isolate ourselves from our own security and well-being.

We love to differentiate ourselves from others. We want to be unique and special, just like everyone else. There is nothing wrong with that up until the point we tear down others for not being or believing the same as us.

Jesus once prayed for you regarding this very topic. At the Last Supper, Jesus prayed for us. (I am still amazed that Jesus actually prayed for us during his ministry.)

This is what Jesus prayed…

“My prayer is not for the disciples alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message (all of us), that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. John 17:20-21

Jesus prayed for our unity. Jesus prayed that we would embrace each other despite our differences and the difference of opinion.

This is easily accomplished. IF we keep Jesus and his teachings as the primary thing in our lives.

All of us (at times) put people and positions ahead of the love Jesus and the love of our neighbor. When that happens, community breaks down and your own well-being is compromised.

When we come together as one, under the name and banner of Jesus, we are made complete.

Paul tells the church in Philippi this very thing.

If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Philippians 2:1-2

We are being called to let go of the hate, stop drawing lines of separation and put Jesus first in all things. Let’s put unity back into our community.

God bless,
Pr. Ben