What is Unity, Anyway?

If we're going to work for unity, it seems reasonable to have a defined yet flexible framework for what would constitute acceptable forms.

Perhaps the clearest Biblical challenge to work for unity, along with a description of the spiritual oneness to which we are called, comes from Paul in his letter to the Ephesians. The imagery of the Bible provides us with an understanding of what unity is and its importance to God. Yet, the shape of unity is left ambiguous in the Scriptures, perhaps intentionally.  Maybe, as with many of our other deeply held convictions based on our various understandings of the Bible, our quest for unity is expected to be forged in the crucible of love.

Unity is a reflection of love. As our love grows in similarity to that of the Trinity, we align our differences like harmonious chords formed from distinctly different notes. The more diversity we share, the richer our music becomes. Our richest relationship is with God, in whose image we are created yet who remains infinitely different than us in so many ways.

To the extent we can tolerate each other's differences, our love and unity can be perfected.

Unity is a gift we give each other. Unity is a relationship where we love, accept, and protect each other, even while advocating opposing views. Unity is the state of being reconciled with each other into one accord by reorienting our relationships around the love we share.

How wonderful it is, how pleasant,
    for God's people to live together in harmony! ...
That is where the Lord has promised his blessing—
    life that never ends.  (Psalm 133:1 &3b GNT)

( ...for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life for evermore. (Psalm 133:3b KVJ) )