Navigating Life: Divisions
I grew up learning and understanding division as a mathematical operation that can be useful in finding the correct solution to a problem.
We now live in times, however, where division is primarily equated with battle lines drawn between opposing factions, especially in the realm of politics. This division has even permeated churches and Christ-followers.
To be sure, I believe in Truth—that is, there is right and wrong in this world. Just as gravity exists whether or not I believe in it, so Truth is a constant that stands regardless of my efforts to ignore or redefine it. My faith looks to Jesus Christ as the Way, the Truth, and the Life. I have embarked on a journey to seek to grow in God’s Truth for my life, through prayer, regular engagement in God’s Word, and healthy interactions with other Christ followers.
With this stated, I find it fascinating that Jesus, in his earthly ministry, assembled a team that was made up of people from different and even opposing political viewpoints. There’s a lesson for us to learn: As they lived with Jesus and opened themselves to God’s Truth that flowed out of him, they also grew closer to each other.
I have Christian friends whose political viewpoints may not always match mine, but I choose to love and cherish them as sisters and brothers in Christ. Choosing to listen well, having respectful conversations, and a mutual commitment to finding and following God and His Truth are steps toward finding solutions, even in times of division and disagreement.
Jesus prayed for deep God-given unity not just for his contemporaries, but also for us—yes, us! Here is His prayer:
“My prayer is not for them alone.
I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message,
that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.
May they also be in us
so that the world may believe that you have sent me” (John 17:20-21)
Praying for people we don’t agree with should be a hallmark of Christ followers. Loving, serving, and helping each other with the heart of Jesus will follow. Even with differences, we can align ourselves with God to overcome divisions and demonstrate the love of Jesus to a world that desperately needs him. I love the description of the effects of unity that are described in this Psalm:
“How good and pleasant it is
when God’s people live together in unity!
It is like precious oil poured on the head,
running down on the beard,
running down on Aaron’s beard,
down on the collar of his robe.
It is as if the dew of Hermon
were falling on Mount Zion.
For there the Lord bestows his blessing,
even life forevermore.” (Psalm 133:1-2)
When we are truly and deeply united in Christ—not just on a superficial or artificial level — something amazing happens: We experience the fragrant blessing of God! Like the perfumed oil that was extravagantly poured over Aaron (Moses’ brother) as a sign of God’s presence upon his priestly ministry, we invite God’s anointing on our lives and churches when we are united in Christ. Like thick mountain dew, God’s sweet presence refreshes and fills our souls as we experience togetherness that overcomes differences. The sweet presence of God will then flow in and through us to reach more people in desperate need of His love, grace, and healing.
I wrote a song about this with the help of my nephew Gabe Atkins. I recorded it with some great musicians, including the legendary guitarist, Cory Wong. I hope it bring a smile and inspire you to pray for God-given unity among Christ-followers, especially those with whom you don’t always agree.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6uo4IsnR_gE
God bless you!
Chris Atkins