THE STORY OF JESUS: Psalm 133
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1)
In what follows Genesis 3, we see the breakdown of God’s family.
From the division between Adam and Eve, their children, to the division of Babel.
Family breakdown, separating into like-minded tribes that attack others.
God sent Jesus to break down walls of division, and reunite His family.
When the high priest was anointed, the oil settled down onto his robes.
And on to his breastplate, which held the 12 stones for each tribe.
The oil represents the Spirit, spreading God’s blessing over all people.
“For there the Lord bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.” Psalm 133:3)
Unity in God’s family is not a unity of sameness, but unity among differences.
It is not big deal when a like-minded church gets along, this is not spiritual.
It is spiritual, a sign of God’s blessing, when people who disagree are united.
As Jesus followers, we are called to be peace-makers – and this assumes lack of peace.
To love those we disagree with, whose culture or practice or views differ from ours.
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35)
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, help me to seek and celebrate unity and love with those who are different from me. This is the real unity that You love to bless!
“To dwell above with saints we love, oh that will be glory! To dwell below with saints we know, now that’s a different story.”
Yet when the indwelling of the Spirit is there, we are empowered to be one. A favourite text of mine is that as far as it depends upon me, live at peace with all mankind. That is a possibility only when the Spirit is at work in us and through us.
Spirit of God, dwell thou within my heart;
Wean it from earth, through all its pulses move;
Stoop to my weakness, mighty as thou art,
And make me love thee as I ought to love.