Sunday morning at my church we baptized a youth who had received Christ in her heart; we listened as two of our members pray in their native language with hearts full of love; we sang praises to God as the Holy Spirit lifted us up; we shared God’s love as we dedicated the shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child sponsored by Samaritan’s purse; and then the pastor spoke and touched the lives of everyone present—but———
—— I slipped out and went to All Saints Day at the Methodist Church. I had never been to the candle-lighting ceremony but was truly blessed as the names of those who had passed away this year were called one by one. As I heard my husband’s name, we (his brother and I) walked up and lit the candle in his memory. This was a moment that will remain in my heart.
Before the ceremony, we read scripture, sang praises, listened to a beautiful spirit-filled message, and just worshiped together, celebrating our love for Christ and our mission to share it with others.
It was a beautiful fall day! I looked around as I was driving home and noticed the landscape. The leaves were changing; they seemed to blend in one accord bringing magnificent color to God’s landscape. The never-changing blue of the sky and the stability of the evergreens join the red, orange, purple, brown, and yellow of the changing foliage.
The leaves bring unity of beauty while maintaining an identity of their own.
Unity of spirit is what God expects of His people. While our differences color His world, having the heart of Christ brings us all together with one purpose—to display to others God’s unchanging love in a changing world.
“May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that You sent Me and have loved them even as you have loved Me.” John 17:23.
Whether it is through a shoebox traveling around the world, or a neighbor living next door, we must share His Good news with all.
God wants unity, not uniformity. There is a big difference—just look out the window!
Have a blessed day!
In Christian love,
Diane