Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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           UNITY OF THE CHURCH FOR THE WITNESS OF LIFE

John 17:20-26

V23   I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.

      This passage belongs to the text called as the High priestly prayer of Jesus. Here, Jesus intercedes to his Father that just as the Father God is in Him and Jesus is in God and they are one, so the disciples may also be in a holy union as one.  Thus, unity among the believers would follow the model of the union of God in Trinity. Perfect unity starts from the mystery of the Trinity.  Jesus was sent to the world while being part of the Trinity for fulfilling an eternal purpose.

       Our unity with one another does not mean that we are all identical in nature, thoughts and feelings.   In spite of our differences, our common point is in Christ Jesus   who brings us together. Our unity is indeed a powerful witness to the world that is becoming easily fragmented.  Where there is unity, we see joy and peace.  It is said, “Church is a beautiful creation which can be viewed as a miracle of witnessing community of believers.”  Churches are meant to be an embodiment of a faithful witnessing community.  Such a community is to be cleansed of prejudices, ego, gender and other disparities which fragment the any community.

        The basis of unity in the church and between churches is  enshrined in three principles, 1. Greater peace 2. closer fellowship 3. fuller life.  “Shalom” (or wholeness) is sought not narrowly for our own community, but for the whole world.  The Church would thus become the source of new culture of grace, peace, compassion and love.

         All glory to Jesus Christ our Lord who lives and reigns with the Father, in the unity of the Holy spirit, One God now and forever. Amen.

 

PRAYER
Dear Lord Jesus, we see your divinity and your holiness while being part of the Holy Trinity.  Give the spirit of concord, peace, love between churches and brethren of the whole world, so that we may glorify your name where ever we are placed. Amen

 

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Understanding the purpose of differences and the importance of common standards is key to maintain unity.

Rev. K.A Varghese Vicar, St. Andrews MTC Yonkers, New York

Christian Education Forum, Diocese of NAE of the Mar Thoma Church

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