Better Together

Together. No matter what the goal is, working on it together, gives you a greater chance of success. But while we would all agree unity is good and desirable, we often don't experience it in everyday life. Differences in race, culture, politics, personal tastes and income remind us daily how uncommon unity is. Maybe you've even noticed a lack of unity in the global church. In fact, sometimes the church doesn't feel much different than the world. But why?

Most of us share the same faith in Jesus, but we come from different backgrounds and experiences. It make sense that it can be tough for different people to get on the same page about anything - even when it comes to faith. So lack of unity is natural and should be expected right?

Not exactly.

This lack of unity isn't how it's always been with Jesus' followers. Look how Luke describes the church:

Acts 2:42 (NIV) They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

Okay, so far, so good.

We are a part of church? Yep

We have teaching? Yep

We have fellowship? Yep

We have food? YES please!

And we have prayer? Amen.

Strong start.

So what's next?

Acts 2:43-45 (NIV) Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.

When Luke says they had "everything in common". I don't think it means they all liked the same foods, watched the same shows on Netflix, or listened to the same music. It was more about how they looked out for each other. They literally were a part of each others lives. They were real with each other. They shared their struggles, their pains, their successes. Imagine giving up what you have to make sure everybody had enough. That may sound a little different than what happens in our world today. But isn't that something you want to be a part of? No - unity isn't common. But it's possible.

Together we are better. It's a simple idea, but a lot harder to make a part of your life. But when we do, your life is better, the reputation of the church improves, and you experience community. The church is better when we are a part of each other's lives. Not just on Sundays. This kind of unity is appealing to everyone, not just people in the church. And when we are unified, when we are known for being people who are inclusive instead of exclusive we are so much closer to God's vision for the church.

Russell