The need and importance of Unity

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Seventh Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Jn 17:20-26*

*First Reading : Acts 22:30; 23:6-11*

*The need and importance of Unity*

*1) Prayer for Unity*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the prayer for unity 

Jesus is seen praying for the Unity of His disciples 

Jesus not only prays for unity but also asks us to pray for the unity, which will help in building the Kingdom of God here on earth

This shows the importance of unity in our life 

*2) The reality of Unity*

Unity is a very challenging aspect in our life. 

To maintain unity in evey sphere of life is not easy 

To strengthen the unity, people should come together and express their oneness. Only then Unity becomes strong and effective

*3) The Demands of the Unity*

There are lots of things we need to consider when it comes to Unity 

One needs to sacrifice many things for the sake of unity

One needs to work hard to strengthen the unity in all tjt areas of our life 

Sacrifice, humility, forgiveness, human approach, sincerity, patience are some of the important qualities to strengthen the Unity 

*4) Model for Unity*

Jesus also gives the model for unity 

Model of Father, Son of the Holy Spirit

The unity found in the Trinity is perfect, complete and divine 

We need to follow the such a model in exercising our unity  

*5) Unity in diversity*

Here unity is not uniformity, But unity in diversity

Belief in Jesus, Gospel values, Divine inspirations are necessary for the Unity 

Unity in Uniformity is only a external factor 

Unity in Divine value and  Spiritual Matters  need not be Uniform, but it can be inspiration to unite the people of God 

*6) The reality of Division*

This is a reality and fact 

There are thousands of divisions in the Church, which is a challenge for the unity 

Many are seen dividing the Church for their hidden agenda and for the other things 

So, like Jesus we need to pray intensely for the unity in the Church 

*7) My prayer for Unity*

Unity gives a great strength and meaning to our life 

If there is no unity, then division only remains 

On my part, prayer for unity, hard work for unity, a little humility, forgiveness and patience is very much needed for  strengthening the Unity, in our Homes, work places, churches and in  the society where we live 

Only then we can enjoy the benefits of unity. 

*Am I ready to live in Unity?*

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*