In one place, on one accord
In May we celebrated a high moment in the life of the Christian church. We celebrated Pentecost. It was an especially moving Sunday for me as it became a real life example of what the Holy Spirit is able to do in our lives when we are all in one place and with one accord. As I stood before you the Spirit reminded me that I was there because of a unanimous decision by the search committee. They made a decision that would forever change the history and landscape of the TCCUCC. When they were gathered together in one place with one accord they allowed the Holy Spirit to do a new thing in the life of TCCUCC. That is a miracle! There is something powerful when we unite around a purpose. Unity does not suggest uniformity but rather celebrates our diversity and differences. Unity allows us to bring our differences to the table and utilize them for the common good. Unity means that we can unite while we are different. Uniformity suggests we all be the same.
I introduced a Greek word to the congregation that day; homothymadon. It simply means with one mind, with one accord, with one passion. When the Holy Spirit descended on the disciples at Pentecost they were gathered together in one place with one accord. The Spirit did not come in the midst of confusion or strife but in the midst of peace and harmony. I am glad that part of our fruit for this new journey includes peace. The Bible admonishes us in Romans 12:18, “If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” As we continue to let God’s love shine through us let’s make a conscious effort to strive to be at peace with each other. As we find ourselves in one place, with one accord, and with one passion we allow the Holy Spirit the liberty to do miraculous things. Trinity Community Church United Church of Christ is a church that is able to do transformative things. Let’s look at what we have accomplished so far and imagine even greater.
God Bless,
Pastor Tasha