Sunday 22nd December 2024—what a perfect day to talk about unity and reconciliation! On this day in 1989, the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin was reopened, marking the end of division caused by the Berlin Wall. A city, and in many ways the world, began to heal and embrace the hope of coming together. It’s a day that reminds us of the power of breaking barriers, literally and spiritually. Isn’t that exactly what Christ came to do for us?
In Ephesians 2:14, Paul declares, “For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.” Here, Paul speaks about Jesus uniting Jews and Gentiles, but the truth applies broadly—Jesus breaks down every wall that divides us from God and each other.
Imagine standing in Berlin on that historic day, seeing families reunited, tears flowing, and people walking freely between what used to be East and West. Isn’t that what Christ does for us? He doesn’t just chip away at the walls we build; He destroys them with His love and grace, reconciling us to God and empowering us to reconcile with others.
But, let’s bring this closer to home. What about the walls we build in our lives? Are there broken relationships you’ve avoided mending? A colleague you disagree with? A family member you haven’t spoken to in years? Instead of bricks and mortar, these walls are made of hurt, pride, and misunderstanding. Yet, Jesus shows us a different way. He was an expert in restoration—whether it was healing a rejected leper (Matthew 8:3) or forgiving a thief on the cross (Luke 23:42-43).
Advent is the perfect season for reconciliation. As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, let’s remember His mission: to bring unity and peace. This isn’t just about big moments like the reopening of the Brandenburg Gate; it’s about the little moments in our homes, our churches, and our communities.
Reflection Question
- Who in my life am I being called to reconcile with today? How can I take the first step to break down that wall?
Action Step
Today, take a moment to pray for someone with whom you’ve experienced conflict. Ask the Lord to soften your heart and theirs. Then, reach out—send a message, make a call, or even extend an olive branch in person. Reconciliation often starts with one small, courageous step.
Moment to Reflect
As you reflect on the significance of Christ’s birth, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any walls in your life. Remember, you don’t have to bring them down on your own—lean on God’s strength and grace.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for sending Jesus to break down the walls of sin and hostility that divide us. Lord, we confess the walls we’ve built in our lives—walls of pride, bitterness, and fear. Help us to be peacemakers in our families, workplaces, and communities. Give us the courage to take steps towards reconciliation, just as You took the first step towards us. Teach us to reflect Your love and grace. We ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.
