How can I be a light to foster unity in a divided world?
In the first and second readings this weekend there are two themes that jump out to me. In Isaiah, it is light in the darkness.
The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom
a light has shone.
Isaiah 9:1
In the second reading, St. Paul asks us to be unified.
I urge you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,
that all of you agree in what you say,
and that there be no divisions among you,
but that you be united in the same mind and in the same purpose.
1 Cor 1:10
We cannot deny the division that exists around us globally, nationally, and even in our own circles of friends, family, and coworkers. So how can we be a light that promotes unity when we encounter disagreements and division?
To me, it starts with being open-minded. Sometimes we enter into discussions with a set viewpoint or opinion. We are determined to convince the person on the other side that our way is the best and only way, and there can’t possibly be another way of doing or thinking about things. However, it is in these moments that we need to first stop and try to understand from where the other person is coming. It is through this willingness to listen and change our own way of thinking that we can become unified. And doesn’t it feel so much better when you leave a discussion unified rather than divided? It is also through this open-mindedness that we can then be seen as a shining light for others. So when you find yourself in these situations, pray for God’s light to shine through you and to be more open-minded to new ideas.
Blessings,
– Matt Kush