大象传媒

Good morning. Today marks the start of the annual 鈥淲eek of Prayer for Christian Unity鈥�.

Unity is a value that鈥檚 widely prized but it鈥檚 also a concept that鈥檚 really hard to define. Achieving unity is difficult because in so many areas of our life and world we prefer to define ourselves by our differences, by the things that set us apart from others rather than those which unite. We see this sharply in the cut and thrust world of politics, business and even sport and it鈥檚 no less a challenge for religious groups too.

The Bible however provides us with a model to work towards: The night before he was arrested Jesus prayed this for all his followers: 鈥淭hat they might be one鈥� 鈥� Not that they would be identical in belief or practice but that they would be bound together in mutual trust. He prayed that his followers might relate to one another as members of a close-knit family where everyone has a place and a strong sense of belonging.

We know that even within families maintaining an atmosphere of harmony takes continual work. There is clearly still a long way to go for the Christian church to realise the vision that Jesus spoke of. The continuing divisions and disputes within and between the branches of the church are visible signs of what might be called the scandal of Christian disunity.

The Bible verse from the book of Deuteronomy which is at the heart of this year鈥檚 鈥淲eek of Prayer for Christian Unity鈥� offers a hopeful way forward, 鈥楯ustice, and only justice, you shall pursue鈥�' It鈥檚 an appeal for us to re-discover unity through seeking to create a fairer world for others.

God of all, we pray for unity amongst those who seek to build a more just world; for healing where ever there鈥檚 division and for a spirit of humility and hope that we might be signs of your grace and mercy. Amen.