Be a Uniter, not a Divider
I'm currently reading a book entitled Return of the Remnant. It's about the revival of Messianic Judaism. Aside from its poor treatment of the Trinity (it's a mystery), it's a very revealing book regarding the divisions caused by Christians and Jews alike, against each other. It got me to thinking about how there are always people like that...
For example, John Chrysostom's divisiveness that he leveraged between Jews and Christians. He basically wanted people to stop being Jewish. What was wrong with the traditions of the Jews? Were they evil of themselves? Were they not a part of the true, historical body of believers, now responsible to embrace Yeshua, Son of the Living God? Did that mean they had to cast off the celebration of the Passover, which Jesus Himself celebrated with His disciples?
None of these are easy questions. John Chrysostom came up with his answers to those hard questions. I'm sure some of his arguments had merit. But then, I think John Chrysostom became a control freak. Unfortunately, it's what dedicated people often become. They care so much about what they've learned or built or dedicated their lives to, that they forget how to do the right thing for others. They forget to think about others before themselves.
Why do people start divisions? Why must it be a fact of life? WHY CAN'T WE ALL JUST GET ALONG? Well, the good news is, we can. It starts with each of us. Decide to be a Uniter, not a Divider. You have the responsibility to not speak ill of your brothers and sisters, including those who are divisive. You may have been hurt by someone else. Jesus says pray for those who despitefully use you and persecute you. But don't just sit back and take the beating! Go out and build relationships. Decide that, for every division that you see brought into the world, you're going to bring in a reunion. Heal some wounds, bind up the brokenhearted. There is much good work to be done, and many good reasons to do it. God is good, and He has a plan for this Earth. Let's not forget that, and let's be inspired by it to do our very best each day!
Like Shannon, I also forgot about this blog. I see that some excellent blogging has been going on. Great to see the emphasis on getting back to basics - hospitality, getting along, etc.
PS - my security word to type in is "hopeful." I am hopeful that's a sign of good things to come in your efforts.