Heed the urgent call to become a global family united in the name of the Christ, committed in love to one another, seeking the kingdom for which you yearn and to which you have always been summoned. That kingdom shall be a peaceable one and it shall be known as Zion.

[Adapted from “Trust: Essential for Community,” K. Scott Murphy, Sept/Oct 2023 Herald, p. 5]

I’m grateful for stories that express deep gratitude for the gift of community that many experience in the church, the kind of community that creates a sense of belonging and value in a person’s life. True community can be life-changing.

But with the stories of gratitude, I have heard stories from those who struggle as they question whether they belong. The common reason…fear of rejection if expressing a different perspective.

My heart breaks when I hear and feel this kind of disappointment and loss because these people feel they cannot be authentic and remain a valued part of the conversation on life issues important for the church to explore.

I wonder if our sense of community has been conditioned by societal behaviors that community is formed more by our aligned agreements than our sense of trust that grows from the gift of Christ-like love and respect, even in our diversity.

It is easy to feel connected when you share a common perspective. But the kind of community that forms from our diversity opens pathways that can be life-giving for all who yearn to belong.

While I cannot fully understand all the dynamics in the many cultures where the church is located, I do know there are places where diversity is not valued. I share these reflections because I truly believe Community of Christ has a vital role and gift to offer in the world.

May the call to be a living presence of sacred community in the world be alive in choices we make in our congregations, groups, or wherever we are with others. For when this happens, we will be a blessing alive in creation.

Prayer Phrase

“Rejoice in hope; be patient in affliction; persevere in prayer” (Romans 12:12).

Intercessory Reflection

Sit quietly with your eyes closed as you enter intercessory reflection and prayer. Ask God to bring people who need prayer to your mind and heart. Be open to images of the people or spiritual insight into their needs. Listen for signals from their lives and let the depth of God’s love for them become powerful and real to you. Write, speak, or think a prayer of blessing and healing for these much–loved disciples and friends. Ask God to help you see ways to affirm and support them when you meet them in daily life.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.