The Center for Leadership Excellence, in partnership with COSROW, is pleased to lift up the voices of women in ministry encouraging fellow women in ministry. Please enjoy this month’s Encouragement from Grayson Dye, associate pastor at Millbrook UMC in Raleigh, NC. Anyone can sign up to receive these monthly emails here.
It seems there is so much tension in the air. Disagreements are at every turn…on the news, on talk shows, on social media, in our churches, and sometimes within our own families. Disagreements over things big and small, from theology to politics to the most heated debate of them all, “Does pineapple belong on pizza?” Of course, pineapple has no place on pizza, but still, we argue about it.
All kidding aside, it seems we are so quick to debate and argue in the face of disagreement. Recently, at the Center for Leadership Excellence and the NCCUMC Christian Unity committee’s event, I was reminded of the very timely words of Paul in Ephesians 4.
Read: Ephesians 4:2-4
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called.
Reflect: Above all else, we are called to bear with one another in love. In the face of disagreement, we are first called to be patient and completely humble. What a breath of fresh air this posture would be in our communities.
Unity does not require uniformity. That is wonderful news. We can celebrate our diversity, celebrate our unique perspectives, and hold each other accountable for loving one another through all disagreements. This is often easier said than done. But I find peace knowing that we can be a united force through Christ’s unfailing love even when we do not always see eye to eye.
How can you seek peaceful reconciliation in your life? How can you foster a spirit of humility, patience, and love in spaces full of disagreements? How have you done this work already?
Take Action: I encourage you this week to highlight people in your life who are living into this calling well. Tell them how their humble and patient stance has inspired you.
In partnership,
Center for Leadership Excellence and the Commission on the Status and Role of Women
Check out these events open to women clergy and laity alike.
COSROW Book Club
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October 17, 2022
Just Energy 4 All Monthly Webinar
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October 19, 2022
Faith Talks
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October 20, 2022
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United Women in Faith
October 25, 2022