Unity

 Psalm 133:1-5; Genesis 45:1-15; Matthew 15:10-28

Today's Psalm celebrates unity. Those who were once apart are now united. Our scriptures give us examples of how to go about finding unity.

The first is in the story of Joseph and his brothers. Now Joseph had every reason not to treat his brothers with kindness or welcome. After all they did want to kill him and instead sold him into slavery to passing strangers. Think of all that he has been through. We only get this first part in the scripture last week, but don't forget he is sold and works himself into a good position only to be falsely accused and then thrown in prison. The only reason he is let out is because of his interpretation of the Pharoah's dream. This showed the years of famine and how Egypt had to prepare for it.

Then his brothers come looking for food. He recognizes them and they don't recognize him. So, he sends them back to his father with extra goods and tells them when they return, they must bring the younger brother back with them. They don't want to return because if anything happens to the younger brother it would kill Jacob, their father. Because they run out of food they have to return and they have to bring Benjamin along with the extra goods, gold and trinkets, with them. Today's text tells us what happens at this meeting.

Joseph forgives them. He wants them to know he doesn't hold it all against them. How many of you could do the same? Would you forgive people, relatives even, who wanted to kill you because of jealousy? Would you be able to open your arms and say it all worked for the good? Think about that. This is the example given to us in the Old Testament. Forgiveness is a good thing, and it reunites a family that had been torn apart by jealousy and deception.

Next is the example given to us in the New Testament. Jesus is confronted by a Canaanite woman about her dying daughter. Because she is not a Jew Jesus refuses to do anything for her. Yet she keeps asking. She doesn't give up and leave, she is faithful. Jesus honors her faith and restores a family. 

This week I went to Camp Bishopswood to be the chaplain and do the Eucharistic service. There were kids from different ages, from different backgrounds, and from different orientations. They all got along with one another. They were respectful and fun and enjoyed each other as they listened to the talent show. They applauded and laughed in all the right places. They were united by the fact they don't seem to be the coolest or the most respected from where they are. They are a community brought together through faith.

Diversity in unity is expected. The labels we give shouldn't keep us apart but strengthen who we are as a people. This is the sign of unity accepting all that God has to offer us in each person. Go and do the same.