Unity in Diversity

Gordon Green, M.Div., M.A. Counseling

My favorite time of year is the fall. The cooler temperatures, the warm and vibrant colors of foliage—it all feeds my soul, my soul! That’s why our family retreats to the mountains of North Carolina in October for a weekend of hiking. We so enjoy the unique and dazzling colors of maples, birches, chestnuts, and sweet gums that blanket the landscape. Each tree in itself is a marvel to behold—a brushstroke from the Artist’s palette. Together, however, the canvas of woodlands explodes with a mosaic of hues and textures that will take your breath away! It is a testimony to the majesty and wonder of our Lord.

Still, there remains a more remarkable work of our Creator that leaves the angelic host in awe. Made in his image, each of us reflects an aspect of our God that completes His masterpiece when united in Christ. Unfortunately, Christ’s bride, the Church, has stumbled throughout the post-resurrection era in trying to figure out what it means to be one with Him in obedience and purpose. History confronts us with the stark reality that we have turned a blind eye to injustice and have even inflicted suffering on fellow believers. Why? Because we live in an age of the “now but not yet.” Now we see glimpses of unity in diversity when the Christian community mobilizes international teams to provide relief and hope to those devastated by natural disasters and war. Yet, we struggle to speak as one voice to decry racial violence and the violation of the unborn. When divided by distrust and self-directed ambition, we have and will continue to fall prey to the Enemy’s machinations. When united by the love of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, we have and will overcome the ravages of evil. And when Christ returns, we the Church will be presented to our Bridegroom perfectly united in diversity—a glorious work of art that will draw the applause of all of creation!