Our scripture this week is Matthew 18:15-20.
If another member of the church sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If the member listens to you, you have regained that one. But if you are not listened to, take one or two others along with you, so that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If the member refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.
Jesus tells us when we gather in His name, He is with us. He knows the value of being together, the love and strength that are shared in fellowship. This whole scripture lesson is about resolving our differences and being together in unity.
The power that is available to us when we work together is amazing. God wants us to be able to accomplish great things and while we are all gifted individually, as His children united we are mighty through His love for us. When we join as the body of Christ, we live as God intended.
Putting aside our differences and the personal issues that divide us is the only way we can accomplish this. Jesus wants us to see each other as brothers and sisters, bringing His family together for the good of all. Gathering in His name on the Sabbath is the beginning of the great blessing of being one in Him.
Loving Lord, teach us Your ways. Help us to see we are all Your children and become the family we were intended to be. Amen.