I recently attended a planning retreat with five incredible women. In the days leading up to it, I thanked God for each of them, grateful that His love binds us together despite our unique backgrounds, life stages, and individual priorities. After spending two nights under one roof, a recurring theme emerged: unity. Each of us not only noticed it, but we celebrated it. Despite our differences, we experienced a deep sense of unity. As I drove home, I was reminded again that while we come from diverse walks of life, we are beautifully united as sisters in Christ.
Psalm 133 opens with a powerful declaration: “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!” Unity is not just an ideal; it is a gift that brings joy and refreshment. Verse 2 compares unity to precious oil poured on Aaron’s head, running down to his beard. This imagery tells us that unity is sacred, soothing, and rich; it covers and blesses. It isn’t rushed or forced, but rather something that flows generously, initiated by God. Verse 3 paints unity as “the dew of Hermon”—a symbol of nourishment and life. Unity is not only good, it also brings growth, strength, and blessing. It invites the Lord’s blessing of “life forevermore.”
When we live in unity, we create space for God’s presence to dwell among us. Unity doesn’t mean we all think alike or live alike. It doesn’t mean we share the same background, the same season of life, or the same priorities. It does mean we recognize the great exchange that took place at the cross when Jesus took upon Himself the divisiveness that can easily creep into our fellowship. And we embrace the truth that Christ has united us in one love, one mind, one spirit, and one purpose. It is truly good and pleasant, and when we embrace it, we don’t just experience each other; we encounter the heart of God.
Reflection Questions:
- In what ways have you recently experienced or contributed to unity in your relationships?
- How does the imagery in Psalm 133 deepen your understanding of the beauty and joy of unity?
- What steps can you take to foster unity, especially when differences in background, priorities, or life stages arise?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your blood that unites me with the Body of Christ. Please forgive me for the times I have failed to pursue unity with sisters who come from different backgrounds or life stages or who have priorities different from mine. Help me to see those differences as a beautiful reflection of Your kingdom. As I choose unity, may it become a testimony that reveals You to a world in desperate need of Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
