What The World Needs Now

You know the problem. The biggest problem is that our world doesn't get along. We are at war against radical Islamic terrorists. Iran hates Israel. North Korea hates the United States. China and Russia just seem to love themselves. Since 9-11 our world is under constant watch for attack. Fortunately we have been able to stop the attempts. However, I think most believe one day something is going to happen.

There is a problem in our own nation to get along. We are at war and some have attacked our own president. Republicans hate democrats and democrats hate republicans. The south is not too fond of the north and who cares what the north thinks. We are a nation divided.

There is a problem in our own families to get along. Marriage has taken a hit and many of our youth are growing up in single or step families. Next week I hope to write an article on marriage as Lori and I approach our 18th anniversary. Lori will tell you that marriage isn't always easy. (Even when you are married to a wonderful person like me).

There is a problem in Christianity to get along. Look in the yellow pages and cry when you read the listings. What happened to the prayer of Jesus that we may be one? Or Paul's declaration to the church at Ephesus - There is one body, one Spirit... one Lord, one faith, one baptism. He also tells us to make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. We even struggle to love or own brotherhood.

There is a problem in the local church to get along. What did Rome, Corinth, Ephesus, Philippi and Thessalonica have in common? The church in these cities was divided! Paul commands us to have the mind of Christ. He encourages us to prefer others above ourselves. He preaches not to let any debt remain outstanding, except the debt of love. He even reminds us to be careful not to hurt someone for whom Jesus died. Jesus said the world will know you are a disciple, if you love one another.

We all want world peace, but are you ready to love others more at church?

September 13, 2006