"I pray not only for them, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, so that they may all be one." Jn 17:20
Though we all desire unity in life, first for and within ourselves, we also find ourselves "bending" the truth from time to time or being disingenuous, which leaves us uncomfortable at best and passionless at worst. When we choose not to be ourselves we risk living with a dishonesty that makes everything difficult, especially prayer, and the unity for which Jesus prays seems beyond even our dreams.
The first task, therefore, for anyone seeking the unity about which Jesus prays is to live honestly with oneself and others. This does not mean we need to say everything we are thinking or feeling, but we must not run from the truth about our own weaknesses, faults and strengths. This kind of honesty fosters compassion for others, gentleness with ourselves, and a deep acceptance of life as it unfolds.
Jesus' prayer for unity is powerful, compelling and difficult. He tells us what he wants of us and for us, but his desire is not always comforting. There is so much division in families, parishes, churches and cultures that we are tempted to put aside the Lord's dream as impossible until we realize again that what might be impossible for us is possible for God.
Today, pray for unity in your own family.
What are the biggest obstacles to unity in your life?
No comments:
Post a Comment
Please be discreet in your comments. I will monitor the comments, and only exclude those that are patently offensive.