This past week we witnessed an historic event: the eclipse of the sun. Many people even traveled for hours or days to see the full eclipse. What did we notice besides the eclipse being so spectacular? We saw how people throughout our country were brought together in unity. Even though the total eclipse lasted but three minutes, we all joined together in unison in being amazed and overjoyed with the beauty and splendor of this event. Many people described it as a spiritual experience as they smiled and /or cried in wonder at the beauty of God’s creation. The biggest impact out of it all, was that finally, finally, we were united in our common humanity even though it was only for three minutes! Nobody was divided with one another as we shared the experience together and felt amazingly close to our Creator. If we read the bible, specifically John Chapter 17 which is known as the High Priestly prayer, we notice that this passage records the only time Jesus prays for us specifically. What He prays for us is only one specific thing: unity. Unity is so important that He repeats His request three times. Jesus prays that we would be “one”, that we be united. Unity is truly what makes God happy and at peace with us. This should be so obvious to us, because isn’t it true that parents wish mainly one thing for their children: love for one another in unity. So here is the question I would like us to think about; “What does true ‘unity’ look like practically? If Jesus’ prayer was answered, what would be the evidence?” Here are some breakthroughs to unity:
1st: We honor others above ourselves. “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves…” (Romans 12:10). One scholar translated this to “try to outdo one another in showing honor”. This is a challenge to us, because we are so competitive normally. That means every person I look in the eye is somebody that matters to God.
2nd: We are generous: “All the believers were united in heart and mind. And they felt what they owned was not their own, so they shared everything they had.” (Acts 4:34-35). It’s pretty obvious why generosity breeds unity. When someone meets a need in your life it creates a bond.
3rd: Get clear about your purpose: “Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.” (Philippians 2:2). There is a great old saying that says: “In essentials ‘unity’… in non-essentials ‘liberty’… in everything ‘charity.’”
4th: Appreciate diversity: “Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other.” (Romans 12:4-5). Unity doesn’t equal uniformity. It doesn’t mean we all dress alike, talk alike, think alike. It doesn’t mean that we will never disagree. Just ask any married couple who has developed a strong marriage. They will tell you how ironing out differences led to greater love and unity.
We are the Body of Christ. Let us work towards greater unity during this Easter Season. ~ Fr. John
