Colossians 3:14
And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Scripture Insights
It is possible to have union without unity. Mark Twain reminds us of this truth when he humorously wrote: “You can take two cats and tie their tails together, and you will have union but not much unity.” Is it possible to have unity in the church with so many voices in our culture calling to divide?
Jesus sees this need as he prays for unity in John 17:21: “that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.” Jesus wants unity for his church. So how do we get there?
The only way is the Christlike way—with forgiveness and loving others the way Christ loved us. He commands us to love as he has loved us, modeled on the cross. Paul, writing to the Colossian church, calls them to put on many virtues. But, “over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
Today’s Prayer
Lord, put within our hearts a desire to learn your Word, your will, and your ways. May our actions and reactions always be in line and in step with your spirit.
Prayer Journal Reflections
Reflect on the unity of the church in Canada and the United States.
—Jim Bond District Superintendent, Kansas
