Now more than ever race, class, and social status are the dividing lines that prevent unity and progress in our world. However, through the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ unity, reconciliation, and healing is possible. 

This is what the gospel does. It invites everyone to the table. Paul’s words, "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" are revolutionary. Gentiles, slaves, and women can sit at the table too? Yes. Because Jesus invited you and paid for your meal. Have a seat.

This message is so important today. In the Body of Christ, we all have a right to be here. Jesus gave His life so we all can sit at this table. His last prayer before being crucified was for unity in His Church. Who are we to tell someone they don’t belong? 

We are told to "make every effort to keep (or preserve) the unity of the Spirit." How do we do that? As individual members of the one Body of Christ we do everything possible to recognize and reflect our oneness in Christ. We may differ in our concepts of local church government. We may differ in our ideas of spiritual gifts.  We may differ in our views of when and how our Lord will return. But we’re not to let these things keep us from recognizing each other as brothers and sisters in the Lord! Those things are not the basis of our unity. Members of an earthly family can hold different opinions, but they can still maintain family unity in love, because they are one family! How much more should we who are members of the one Body of Christ (not just family) reflect our unity "in the bond of peace."

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