Unity is Precious

We may never know the exact issue between the two women, Euodia and Syntyche, in Philippi, but it was significant enough that Paul, while in a Roman prison, heard about it and wrote to the Church about it.

In Psalm 133, the psalmist David describes unity as a precious oil poured on the head of Aaron. In Exodus, we read that God instructs Moses on the specific ingredients and proportions required for anointing oil. It had to be perfect — balanced in weight, fragrance, and blend. The anointing oil was made from costly ingredients like myrrh, fragrant cinnamon, calamus, cassia, and olive oil. This illustrates that unity, too, is a costly affair. Often, it requires a person to sacrifice personal views and opinions for the greater good. As Paul mentions in his letter to the Church of Philippi, it involves being tender, compassionate, loving, cooperative, unselfish, humble, and looking out for each other’s interests.

The Psalmist describes the unity as the oil being poured over Aaron’s head. Aaron was the High Priest, chosen by God to represent the people before Him. In the new covenant, you and I are His chosen priests. This means that when it comes to unity, we shouldn't wait for others to take the first step. Each of us is called to be proactive in fostering unity. We should be peacemakers, not peace breakers. Just as Paul urged the church to intervene in the dispute between Euodia and Syntyche, we must also be willing to step in and promote peace and unity.

The Psalmist also describes unity as oil poured over Aaron’s head, running down his robes. This imagery emphasizes the beauty of unity. If one were present while the oil was being poured over Aaron’s head, it would have been a sight to behold, and the fragrance of the oil would have filled the room. Unity brings joy to the senses. We can see the difference when we are around people who are constantly quarreling.

Jesus prayed for unity. He said, “I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one — as you are in me, Father, and I am in you."

What about us today? Are we praying and striving for unity?

Prayer: Lord, make me a channel of your peace. Where there is hatred between brothers and sisters, let me bring your love. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.