Unity Does Not Mean Same

Scripture

Ephesians 4:4–6
“There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all.”

Reflection

The Trinity teaches us that unity does not mean sameness. The Father is not the Son. The Son is not the Spirit. The Spirit is not the Father. And yet the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are one God, eternally united in love.

That truth has something to say to the church.

We often act as though unity means everyone must think alike, worship alike, vote alike, speak alike, and see the world alike. Or we assume the opposite: that difference must always lead to division. If we are not the same, we must separate. If we disagree, we must become enemies. If we see differently, we must withdraw from one another.

But in the life of God, distinction and unity are not enemies. Difference exists without rivalry, without fear, without domination, and without division. The Trinity does not give us an easy program for church life, but it does give us a holy vision. The church is called to become a community where people do not lose their identity, but neither do they live only for themselves.

That kind of community requires love. Not vague love. Not sentimental love. Not love as a slogan. Patient love. Truthful love. Forgiving love. Holy love. Love that makes room without surrendering conviction. Love that holds fast without becoming harsh. Love that seeks the good of the other even when it costs us something.

In a divided world, the church has the opportunity to bear witness to a different way of being together. Not because we are naturally good at it, but because the God we worship is eternal communion.

Application

Think of someone in the church or your life who sees something differently than you do. Pray for them by name today, not that they would become more like you, but that both of you would become more like Christ.

Prayer

God of holy communion, teach us unity without sameness and difference without division. Form your church in patient, truthful, forgiving love. Help us resist rivalry, fear, and pride, so that our life together may bear witness to your life. Amen.

Song

“One Love / People Get Ready” — Bob Marley & The Wailers