"... then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit & purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves." Philippians 2:17 (NIV)
Colossians 3:14 says, "And overall all these virtues [compassion, kind-ness, humility, gentleness, & patience] put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity." Before Mission Year, I had a different perspective of what it meant to be united with my brothers and sisters in Christ. Over the past couple of months, we have been seeking God to move us to grow in greater love for one another so that out of that love, we may act in pleasing and honorable ways to-wards God. Out of this love, we not only have been growing in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience—but have a larger capacity to serve our greater community.
One thing that I have learned is that our differences are worth celebrating. Unity does not mean conformity. Jesus is present in all of us—when we agree and when we can’t seem to see eye to eye. It definitely is not easy to love other Christians but because of our faith we have the ability to accept one another.
I value the relationships that I have built here. When I come home after a hard and emotional day—I know that I’m surrounded by a family who not only cares but is willing to share my burden. When I come home with praises from the day, I’m surrounded by family who is excited to celebrate with me! There is no room for us to isolate ourselves.
This type of community is a beautiful gift from God and we are all constantly reminded of that in the good times and the bad. The reason why we are still here giving our energy, emotions, and devotion to one another is because we know that beautiful things are growing within us. I’m so excited to experience this part of God’s heart for people—it definitely is not easy to live this way, but it is a blessing and it’s worth it.
No comments:
Post a Comment