Forward Day by Day is an Episcopal devotional resource much like the Upper Room daily devotional of the United Methodist Church. Recently, I spent time at an Episcopal retreat center and came across this daily devotional which reflects on these past ten years. I thought that it made an interesting point regarding our unity/disunity as a country in the context of Paul's plea for unity in his letter to the Corinthians.
1 Corinthians 1:1-19. Now I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you be in agreement and that you be united in the same mind and the same purpose.
St. Paul believed that Christian life is essentially life within community, even though one’s personal faith and commitment is obviously important. Reconciliation with God and one another is a fruit of the gospel. When members of the little church in Corinth began to take sides in choosing their leaders, Paul admonished them.
Reconciliation and unity are essential for the well-being of us all. Ten years ago on the day after 9/11, there was enormous unity among Americans and among many people throughout the world. There was unity in grief and resolve. We found great strength, even in despair.
Today, many of us are once again divided, and our loyalties are focused on individual leaders, parties, and ideologies. There is often more interest in winning than in reconciliation.
Here’s a question for the day: “How does the gospel guide my citizenship?”
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