By Pastor Steve Nickodemus

That They May Be One

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“… that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they may also be in us, so that the world may believe you have sent me.”
John 17:21 English Standard Version

Harmony… everything and everyone working together in perfect unity.  People desperately want harmony in their marriages, in their families, in their work, with their friends.  But sin divides us and causes us conflict and disharmony.  People spend hours reading books, going to counselors, attending seminars, all in attempts to achieve harmony and unity with others.

Jesus came to earth to give us harmony with God and with one another.  To achieve that harmony for us He died on a cross to bring about forgiveness for our sins and He rose again and prays for us so that we might be truly one with God and with one another.  We see that oneness in Jesus’ relationship with His Father, and in our Lord Jesus we see that oneness in restored and reconciled relationships with one another.

Harmony does not come from me trying harder to get along with others.  Harmony comes from me being humbled and admitting my disharmony and sin.  And the Lord restoring me to Himself. This is also true of my relationships with others, especially those who follow Christ.  Together we can humble ourselves, admit our sin, and be forgiven and reconciled with one another.

And harmony does not come from me trying to be the same as others and giving up my individuality.  True harmony comes about when every member of the chorus, each with their unique voice, contributes together to a harmonious whole.  Knowing that God has loved me and forgiven me in Christ Jesus, gives me patience and respect for those who sing a different part in the choir!

Dear Lord, in Christ Jesus you have restored our unity with you and with one another.  Thank you for your forgiveness and mercy upon me so that I can love those around me in Your harmony!  In Jesus’ name.  Amen.

Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church Colorado Springs, Colorado