Unity. It is a hot topic today. I worked for United Auto Group, and could fly anywhere in the United States on United Airlines. They could take money from my paycheck for the United Way. When our troops come home they are re-united, and I think you get the idea. Toyota actually produced cars in the US of A, built by NUMMI, National United Motor Manufacturing, Inc. Somehow, the title of something with united in it makes us feel, so united! And when we have society telling us to have "Unity through diversity," well I give up. Try that with Raider and Charger fans! But at any given time we can give in to unity, when it meets our needs.
Years ago the Albuquerque Dukes had 25 cent beer night. And there was unity in beer drinkers that night, as all the Bud, Miller, and PBR drinkers were unified in 25 cent, brand didn't matter, the price did! So much for brand loyalty! Whenever the Chargers are winning, they draw sell out crowds, but in times of 1-15, the city had to pay for the empty seats so that the home games could be televised. So the so-called loyal fans could unite at their homes, in front of their TV's, instead of paying $40 per seat. So much for team loyalty! And I watch at motorcycle rallies, as bikers unite, with the bar and shield crowd over here, the Wing Nuts gathered together, and the Beemerphiles still yet segregated. But we are all bikers, I guess that gives us unity, right? Or is that unity through diversity?
It seems society loves to talk unity, but can be easily swayed. My friend Peter has actually sponsored a Unity Ride, where all Christian clubs come together in various locations for the day, uniting in the spirit of the Lord, in a praise and worship day, after a ride and of course food. Church on motorcycles, not a bad thing.
But when God talks unity, He is talking of a special unity. Not a unity of togetherness by brand, price, choice of ride, or team loyalty. His is a unity of the Spirit, where we Christians become like Him, agreeing with Him, being part of a unity where no bonds can be broken, and are unique in the world. Where just because a group has things in common, and unites, in Christ it is a unity where we agree with Him,our commonality, Jesus, and our guide the Holy Spirit. A unity that doesn't change based on situations, as it is based on Jesus Christ, who doesn't change, but changes us when we let Him. A unity based on love and trust, administered in faith. Walking in His Spirit. No better place to be.
But weaker souls can be like society, changing with trends, conditions, finances, and doctrines. This is not unity in the spirit, and should not be called as such. True unity comes through Jesus Christ, and no other. You may differ on where to eat, what to wear, or what to ride-but true believers never differ on Jesus, and who He is. And will seek Him, and not the situation, when troubles come. Look to the cross-show it with great joy in your life. Seek God's spirit, and walk peacefully in it. Confident that the same God who told Moses "see you on the other side," was faithful to meet him there. It took unity with God for Moses to trust the way that God would provide.
Today your car may be broken, or your legs, or you marriage. God can heal all these things, if you let Him. Trust Him, ask Him, and then let Him. His way, not your prethought out schemes based on a night of losing sleep over it. That is not trust. Ask and it will be given to you. Seek and you will find. Seek first the kingdom of God, then all things will be added. Trust God.
Unity in the spirit. More than matching team jerseys. More than all riding the same brand. And more than just attending the same church. Where the spirit of the Lord is there is liberty! God made the first move when He sent Jesus. The next move is up to you.
And with 9-11 coming up, remember the Flight 93 heroes, 40 people who united in the spirit of the Lord, and saved our country. Heroes who took the scripture, "greater love hath no man than to lay down his life for his brothers," to heart, and in a brilliant, loving unity gave their lives. No one else but the Holy spirit could unite 40 strangers in a common bond-one that meant giving the ultimate sacrifice-their lives. So as we remember them, God bless America! And may we bless God! In the unity of love!
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com