Uniting God,

Ephesians 4:3 reminds us to “make an effort to preserve the unity of the Spirit with the peace that ties us together.” As I read and meditate upon this verse, I find myself asking, “Am I making an effort to preserve unity? Am I working for or against peace?”

God, in those moments where I am tempted to jump into the divisive rhetoric that is deeply dividing the denomination of love and serve through, help me to step back and ask if what I’m adding to the conversation is helpful or hurtful.

God, in those moments when I am tempted to engage in divisive debates that are deeply dividing the nation I love and live in, help me to step back and ask if what I’m adding to the conversation is helpful or hurtful.

God, in those moments when I am tempted to belittle or gossip about others, help me to step back and examine why I feel the need to tear others down.

God, in those moments when I am tempted to ignore the needs of my neighbor because of my own selfishness, help me to step back and examine if there are practical ways in which I can address my neighbors needs as they arise.

God, so often I work to preserve institutions, reputations, status and privilege when I should be working for peace and unity.

God, help me to put aside my own selfish desires and pursuits so that I might better love and serve you and my neighbor. Help me to be a person of peace that attempts to bring unity where there is division, hope where there is despair, and love where there is fear. And, help me to remember that peace, unity and hope are available in and through you.