Ranjan Fernando, Sri Lanka
“My prayer is not for [the disciples] alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.”
John 17:20–21
Let me share with you three ways that we as individuals and the Body of Christ as a whole should stand out in today’s world:
A Unified Church (Ephesians 4:1–16) Christians are divided into many groups today. Certain differences could have been passed on to us through tradition. In my country, which has many religions and pluralistic traditions, it is important for all believers in Christ to affirm our unity. Paul admonishes us to keep the unity received by faith in the Triune God—the Father of all and over all, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit who dwells within the body called the Church. As part of the Body of Christ, it is of the utmost importance for each of us to do our part, according to His calling, so that we edify the church as a whole and be unified.
Build Your church, Lord. Make us strong. Join our hearts through Your Son. Make us one as Your body in the Kingdom of Your Son.
A Sharing Church (Acts 4:32–37) We may wonder whether having everything in common is possible at present. In this passage, the believers were quite a large company. There was oneness—no possessiveness of individuals—so holding everything in common was not a problem. There was no needy person, and distribution was according to each person’s need. This oneness and sharing was on all, not just a few select ones or special ones. They also testified to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus with great power. How many of our testimonies have great power? Those who hear our testimonies look for authentication by our lives and lifestyles. How may our lifestyles match our faith claims?
Lord, help us in our materialistic, consumeristic, amassing cultures to learn the principles of sharing.
A Serving Church (Mark 10:32–45) Jesus said, “Whoever wants to be first shall be slave [or servant] of all” (v. 44). This is the key for servant leadership. Greatness is not in seeking after a position or power, but something realized through one’s sacrificial and selfless service. Jesus demonstrated His humility by becoming a servant and dying for our sins on the cross. We have no better example. Even after hearing from Jesus about His death, resurrection, and gift of eternal life, the disciples were passionate about their own needs. Instead of sharing His thoughts, James and John sought for privileged positions after this life. Jesus made it clear that without suffering it is impossible to have any part in His glory. The honor of sitting with Him on His throne is given to those who take up their cross and overcome the enemy. James and John were later willing to take the path of suffering. Am I willing to emulate Jesus’ servanthood?
Father God, help me to follow the steps of Jesus, even if it means suffering and death, so that Your Name will be glorified through my life of serving others.