On 24th October, the world celebrates United Nations Day, marking the anniversary of the UN Charter coming into force in 1945. The UN was formed with the hope of fostering peace, security, and international cooperation after the devastation of World War II. The vision behind the United Nations was to unite countries to work towards common goals—ending conflict, supporting human rights, and improving the lives of people around the globe. This desire for unity echoes a central theme found in the Bible: God’s heart for His people to live in unity.
God’s Call for Unity
Throughout scripture, unity is emphasised as a hallmark of God’s Kingdom. In John 17:21, Jesus prays for His followers: “that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” Jesus’ prayer highlights the importance of unity, not just for the church’s sake, but so that the world may see God’s love through us. The unity we have with each other as Christians points the world to Christ.
The United Nations, in its own way, seeks to unite countries for the common good. Yet, while human institutions have their limitations, God’s vision of unity is much broader and deeper. He desires us to be united as one body in Christ. As Paul writes in Ephesians 4:3, “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” We are called to work actively towards unity, not just passively hope for it.
A Challenge for Us
In the church and in our personal lives, unity doesn’t come easily. We are all different—different personalities, different backgrounds, different opinions. Just like nations sometimes clash at the UN, we may find ourselves in conflict with others. But unity doesn’t mean uniformity. Rather, it’s about finding common ground in Christ and choosing to walk in love, humility, and understanding.
Psalm 133:1 reminds us, “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” Unity is a powerful testimony to the world, but it requires intentionality. It means forgiving those who hurt us, choosing to see past differences, and working together for the sake of the Gospel.
Reflection: Walking in Unity
- Reflection Question: Are there areas in your life where you struggle to maintain unity with others? What steps can you take today to foster peace and understanding?
- Action Step: Take a moment to reach out to someone with whom you’ve had differences. Pray for them, and if possible, have a conversation to restore peace. Remember, God calls us to make every effort to keep the bond of peace.
God’s Example of Unity
We also see a perfect model of unity in the Trinity. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit work together in perfect harmony. They are distinct but never divided, each fully aligned in love and purpose. This mystery of unity within diversity is reflected in the church. We are many members, but one body in Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12). No matter how different we are, we are connected by the same Spirit.
Just as the UN strives for unity among nations, we must strive for unity among ourselves as believers. But our unity is not built on political agreements or treaties; it’s built on the foundation of Christ’s love. And when we live in that unity, we show the world a glimpse of what heaven looks like.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Thank You for calling us into unity with You and with one another. Help us to overcome our differences and walk in love, understanding, and peace. Just as Jesus prayed for unity among His followers, we ask that You strengthen the bond of unity in our lives, in our families, and in the church. May we be a living testimony to the world of Your love and grace. Give us the courage to seek peace where there is division and to offer forgiveness where there is hurt. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
