In the midst of the intense political divide, Reverend Max Lucado reflects on the extraordinary example of Christian unity amidst the devastation of Nagasaki, Japan, and draws parallels to Jesus' prayer for unity among his followers.
In the heart of San Antonio's bustling metropolis, Reverend Max Lucado stumbled upon a legendary figure within the realm of Protestant Christianity: Buckner Fanning, pastor of Trinity Baptist Church for an astounding four decades. As their paths intertwined during a Sunday service exchange, a profound memory surfaced, forever shaping the narrative of Fanning's sermon.
During World War II, a young Fanning, adorned in the uniform of a Marine, witnessed the apocalyptic aftermath of the atomic bomb in Nagasaki. Amidst the despair and devastation, a glimmer of hope emerged in the form of a dilapidated sign bearing the words "Baptist Church." Intrigued, Fanning resolved to return on the following Sunday.
Unity in the Midst of Division: Lessons from Nagasaki and Jesus' Prayer
Upon his arrival, he encountered a group of Japanese believers valiantly setting up chairs and clearing debris in the remnants of their shattered church. As the uniformed American approached, they did not react with hostility or vengeance. Instead, they greeted him with a single, evocative word: "Brother."
In that extraordinary moment, the wounds of war and the enmity between nations melted away as one Christian extended the body and blood of Christ to another, setting aside their differences to serve the one true God.
Unity in the Midst of Division: Lessons from Nagasaki and Jesus' Prayer
Reverend Lucado draws a sobering analogy to the present-day political landscape, marked by vitriol and relentless division. He urges us to emulate the example of those Japanese believers, embracing unity in the face of adversity.
Central to this message is the poignant prayer uttered by Jesus on the eve of his crucifixion: a plea for the unity of his followers. Jesus understood that their collective unity would be a beacon of hope, comforting the broken, sustaining the weary, and nurturing the growth of the church.
Unity in the Midst of Division: Lessons from Nagasaki and Jesus' Prayer
Drawing inspiration from this divine prayer, Reverend Lucado offers practical advice for navigating the challenges of political division. He advises reserving judgment and treating each individual as a unique being, free from preconceived notions or labels.
Furthermore, he emphasizes the importance of reasoned dialogue and collaboration, even when differences arise. As the apostle Peter proclaimed, "Love covers a multitude of sins" (1 Pet. 4:8 ESV). Could it not also cover a multitude of opinions?
Unity in the Midst of Division: Lessons from Nagasaki and Jesus' Prayer
In these tumultuous times, Reverend Lucado reminds us that our ultimate hope lies not in temporary earthly solutions but in the promise of heaven. Yet until that glorious day arrives, he implores us to strive for kindness and compassion towards one another.
He shares an anecdote from his sermon illustration books, where a missionary and his young son, faced with the hardships of Central Africa and a perilous sea voyage, find solace in the boy's simple question: "Father, when shall we have a home that will not shake?"
Unity in the Midst of Division: Lessons from Nagasaki and Jesus' Prayer
Reverend Lucado assures us that this home is coming soon, but until then, we must do our part to provide a sanctuary of unity and grace amidst the storms of life. He concludes with a poignant reference to Mark Rutland's book, "Streams of Mercy," highlighting the words Americans yearn to hear: "I love you," "I forgive you," and "Supper's ready."
These phrases encapsulate the essence of Jesus' message, a message of love, mercy, and invitation. Just as the Japanese believers embodied this message in Nagasaki, may we too strive to create a communion of grace, where the wounds of division are healed and the hope of unity prevails.
