By Van Richmond
Pastor, New Life Church, Nashville

Focal Passage: Ephesians 4:1-6

In a world filled with disagreement and divergent opinions, how does one go about achieving unity? Kristi’s T-shirt boldly and humorously answered that question: “Agree With Me Now. It Will Save Sooooo Much Time.”

If you asked a coach, university president, or corporate CEO to list essentials for success, “unity” would be mentioned quickly, with their responses likely being expressed as harmony, cohesiveness, or having everyone on the same page. Oh, if only unity and harmony could be achieved so easily! As difficult as it might be to imagine in today’s pay-with-plastic world, the owner of a donut shop has been dubbed the “Donut Nazi” because of his furious refusal when a customer wants to pay with a credit or debit card, often telling the shocked buyer to get out of his store. This shopkeeper’s livid tirades fly in the face of American writer and philosopher Elbert Hubbard’s advice, “Minimize friction and create harmony. You can get friction for nothing, but harmony costs courage and self-control.” [Read more…]

By Van Richmond
Pastor, New Life Church, Nashville

Focal Passage: Ephesians 2:17-22

Nobel Peace Prize winner and theologian Albert Schweitzer once astutely noted, “We are all so much together, but we are all dying of loneliness.” While it seems difficult to imagine anyone could possibly feel isolated on a planet inhabited by over seven billion people, the reality is the esteemed Schweitzer’s observation is as accurate today as during his lifetime. What could be missing that would be so important?

Deep, meaningful connections. In Genesis 2:18, God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone.” The need for relationships left the Garden of Eden with Adam and Eve and endures yet today. People embark upon multiple journeys in the never-ending effort to connect. They might seek others with similar hobbies, goals, or careers. Others might join a church or perform volunteer duties. Individuals even join dating websites in hopes of discovering the love of their life. “We are all so much together, but we are all dying of loneliness.” [Read more…]