“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. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.” (John 17:21)
In the Apostles’ Creed, we say that we believe in “the holy catholic (universal) church.” In the Nicene Creed we say, “We believe in the one holy catholic (universal) and apostolic church.” In the Statement of Faith of the Korean Methodist Church we say, “We believe in the church, those who are united in the living Lord for the purpose of worship and service.” Yet, we see in the world, a church that seems to be divided by beliefs, practices, styles, and even methods of missionary endeavors. How can we be united in one church?
God and His very nature as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – Three in One – gives us a clue as to how we can indeed be united into one. The scripture for today points out that the church is united into one body just as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are united in one God. The great mystery of the church is this unity of a triune God reflected in the unity of His diverse church. We join with Christians, with all creation, and with the heavenly hosts in singing, “Holy, Holy, Holy Lord. God of power and might. Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest!”
IronMaker’s Daily Challenge: As you pass churches of various denominations in your travels today, recall that we are all part of one church universal, united in love and service to Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Forgive us Lord, for thinking that our diversity means division. Help us to remember that we are all united in Love. AMEN.
Bob Peden
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