In 1969 blues artist Wilbert Harrison released his song, “Let’s Work Together.” It has since been covered by others, most notably the group Canned Heat. In it Harrison sings:
Together we will stand divided we'll fall
Come on now people let's get on the ball
And work together, come on, come on let's work together, now, now people
Say now together we will stand, every boy, girl, woman, and man...
Based on our reading from Acts today I have this mental image of Peter singing these words to those gathered in the home of Cornelius. “…And (Peter) said to them, ‘You yourselves know that it is unlawful for a Jew to associate with or to visit a Gentile; but God has shown me that I should not call anyone profane or unclean. So when I was sent for, I came without objection’" (Acts 10:28-29).
Unity is a beautiful thing, and God desires it for humanity. It begins when we allow ourselves to be instruments of reconciliation. It begins when we are willing to let others talk while we listen. It begins when we look for similarities and commonalities instead of bashing each other over perceived––and often petty––differences. And even when the differences are significant and seemingly overwhelming God calls us to love and care for one another anyway. “Now together we will stand, every boy, girl, woman, and man.” My hope for the world this day is that somewhere someone will lay aside his or her assumptions and biases and reach out to another person just long enough to recognize a shared humanity with common needs and aspirations because in that moment God will be glorified. “Together we will stand divided we'll fall/Come on now people let's get on the ball…”
Prayer: Almighty God, help us to find a common purpose in your will and to share the joy that you seek with others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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