May the God of guidance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another. – Romans 15:5

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Have you ever experienced being part of a group that was living harmoniously? If not, you might mistakenly imagine people who are enticed into a cultlike subjection to a group, wearing similar clothes and behaving in ways that make them “acceptable.“ However, harmony is based on differences. A beautiful chord of music is made up of several different notes being played simultaneously.

The harmony Paul writes of in today’s passage is the result of diversity with order. Opinions are a source of much division and God’s people are not immune. You are entitled to your opinion, and your points of view may be thoroughly researched, which gives you confidence in your position. But that assurance may present a challenge. Is it more important to you to be right or to be loving? Any stance you hold must leave room for fellowship with believers who may be less informed, or who simply disagree, to foster unity in God’s Kingdom!   

Jesus kept company with ordinary people on Earth. He treated them tenderly and compassionately. He did not reject those who disagreed with Him, but pointed everyone to God’s love. Christ’s humble approach turned the religious world upside down by loving people into a new way of life, led by the Holy Spirit.  

Making peace is not passivity or disingenuous agreement. It is a commitment to love and intercede for your fellow disciples rather than prove how you are right. Pray that followers of Christ across the United States opt to put on love and seek unity, strengthening God’s Kingdom on Earth. Ask that the beautiful harmony of peace with those dedicated to the Lord will be evident across the nation.