There is . . . one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

— Ephesians 4:4-6

Citizens of the same country have many things in common. For example, they share the same territory, language, and history. In a similar way Christians are one in Christ. We are united spiritually with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. In terms of doctrine, we are united by the same confession: the same faith, the same hope, the same baptism. And in day-to-day life we as Christians are called to demonstrate this unity.

Rather than focusing on differences, which are only of minor importance, Paul lays the foundation for our unity. We have all been baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We profess the truths that Jesus lived among us, died on the cross, and rose from the dead. Our lives are led by the same Lord. As Christians, we share the same hope of living in the fullness of joy in Christ forever. As Christians, we are filled with the same Spirit, through whom we cry, “Abba, Father” (Romans 8:15-16). Let us therefore make this unity visible. When we are focused on the things that bind us together, we can live in unity and maintain the bond of peace.

Where might there be differences in your family, church, and community? How can you emphasize what you have in common rather than what your differences are? What can you do to foster Christian unity despite the differences?

Father God, you call us to one common faith. Help us, your church, to strive for unity and to live for you. Amen.