A Recipe for Unity

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV)

I don’t know if this is true of all churches, but we enjoy potluck suppers at Pearl Street. It’s a great time of fellowship and food. We used to have a sign-up sheet to ensure we had enough entrees, salads, and desserts, but in recent years, it’s been “bring your favorite dish.” It still works out that there is plenty of food, but as some of us have aged, we have developed dietary restrictions and food preferences. Instead of bringing turkey lasagna–my staple for years- I’m bringing gluten-free, vegetarian lasagna to ensure there’s something for everyone to eat. 

Just as meals can bring people together, they can also create divides when preferences or traditions clash. The early church faced similar challenges over dietary laws. Many of Christ’s first followers adhered strictly to the dietary restrictions outlined in the Law. As the Good News of Jesus spread, questions arose about what could be eaten and under what circumstances. Paul addressed this in his letter to the Corinthians, urging believers not to let food become a stumbling block or a source of division. He reminded them that what truly matters is glorifying God in all things.

We can also find inspiration in the Last Supper. In this sacred meal, Jesus shared bread and wine with His disciples, emphasizing love, service, and community. He washed their feet and instructed them to love one another as He had loved them (John 13:34-35). Communion, born from this sacred moment, is not merely a ritual but a profound call to unity. In the Wesleyan tradition, it is a celebration of Christ’s presence and an invitation to break down the barriers that divide us. As we partake in the bread and cup, we do so not only to remember Christ’s sacrifice but also to proclaim our shared identity as members of His body. Communion calls us to live out this unity in our daily lives, glorifying God through our actions and relationships.

Today, we sometimes allow small disagreements to grow into larger divisions—whether over preferences, beliefs, or biases. Social media, generational gaps, and cultural differences can amplify these divides, creating barriers that Christ calls us to tear down. While there are moments when we must stand firm on matters of sin or injustice, the things that divide us are often not essential. Instead, let us follow Paul's model and focus on the bigger picture: unity in Christ, and embrace Jesus’ example in the Last Supper, where unity, love, and service shine brightly. Through small acts of kindness, shared meals, and intentional fellowship, we can reflect the glory of God and celebrate what unites us as His people.

Gracious and unifying God, we humbly come before you today with gratitude in our hearts. We confess that too often, we allow small differences to divide us, losing sight of the beauty of being one family in Christ. Forgive us, Lord, and help us focus on what truly matters—your love that binds us together. May our actions, words, and even our shared meals be a reflection of your glory. Guide us to set aside our differences and unite as one body in service to you. Through Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim