One Life: Sent by Jesus to Carry Each OtherНамуна

When you stop to think about it, it’s extraordinary that Jesus has patiently and purposefully been working to answer his own prayer, from that agonizing night in the Garden of Gethsemane up to this very moment.

When Christians gather, the conversation eventually turns to the many ways we are divided. We reflect on how disappointed God must be that we are not more unified. We lament about how often the world’s disbelief is a result of our broken unity with each other.

And yet…for all the real divisiveness that exists amongst the Body of Christ, Jesus is still at work to bring together those who believe him, that they might be one, just as Jesus and God are one.

What patience Jesus must have with us! What kindness!

And that might be the key to us also joining Jesus in answering his prayer for unity. Just as Jesus was sent by the Father to save the world, so we are also sent to be part of this saving, this kind of healing, this patient rescue work.

Let’s not overlook how crucial patience and kindness are to rebuilding unity among those we have been hurt by, those who have broken trust, and a fractured community.

In my ministry with the YMCA, I want to highlight ways we can be part of the answer to Jesus’ prayer for unity. Is it when we gather for worship songs or a Gospel sermon? Is it when we stand in a circle and pray or join a church? I certainly hope that participating in these activities strengthens our union with Christ.

But what about the rest of our lives, the days and hours when we’re at work, at home, at school, at the Y, or out and about in the community? That’s where we spend most of our time, interacting with diverse Christians from different denominations and ethnicities. It’s also where we give the most witness to the world about our union with God in Christ.

Immediately you might start to feel overwhelmed! Where would we get the energy and capacity to be patient and kind on this scale?

May we realize, at that moment, that it's our union with Christ Jesus, that's how we're able to carry those who are hurting that God has placed in our life.

Written by Tim Hallman, Christian Emphasis Director, YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne IN