Thursday of the 5th week of Eastertide

Unity and division

 John 15:9-11


The Church has always found itself in conflict - with principles, personalities and beliefs.

But it also has its way of uniting peoples, especially for God.

The reading from the Acts of the Apostles reflects a resolution; there would not be any circumcision, but there would not be eating of food from animals offered to idols.  Christianity now focuses on internal dispositions and not outward expressions.

The gospel emphasizes the result of unity and a united heart - love.  Love comes from the Father and the son.  Love enables us to follow Jesus.  True joy comes in loving rightfully the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.  We should stop looking for things that divide us.  Instead, look for things that unite us in love.

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