If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand (Mark 3:25, NIV)
“United we stand, divided we fall" is a phrase used in many different kinds of mottos, most often to inspire unity and collaboration. However, long before philosophers and organisations adopted the phrase, the Bible has already clarified the potency of unity when it states in Mark 3:25 that a house divided against itself cannot stand against the attacks from opposing forces. It is in deference to this that the LWP theme for November is UNITY & STRENGTH. We want to contend as one man, in unity, against every opposing force, for the well-being of individual families and the parish as a whole.
One of the greatest hindrances to a church making an impact on the community around her is a lack of unity - a lack of Christian love and passion focused together in the same direction. Jesus said, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). The apostle Paul wrote four biblical letters from prison - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. A common thread that runs through each letter is a challenge for the believers to be unified, to recognize that their new standing with God must deeply impact how they relate to others in the family of God. Unity was not a tertiary issue in his mind; rather, it was essential for the advancement of God’s kingdom. In the same vein, Living Water Parish has been set upon a hill by God to be salt and light to the community around us. By God’s grace we shall serve heaven’s purpose through the joint efforts of every member of the parish. We also pray for peace and unity in every family represented in LWP as well as those who get to read this piece.