BigFatOofta

  Definition of unity: 1a : the quality or state of not being multiple : oneness I have often struggled with the word “unity,” but I have been confronted with it over and again lately.   A few examples:  -Looking for it in the middle of a conflict with my spouse -Hearing it touted as the goal for America by government leaders -In issues of racism, unity is the cry of many.  -The church is called to be unified over and again in scripture I have struggled with the word unity as it just seems like this unattainable mountain when I look at it with my human eyes.  I think, because I want to “feel” something before I can be unified with something.  I want to make something happen, ultimately, justice, before considering unity.  I need to know that I can trust the person who is calling me to be unified in the area, or with person xyz.   Funny how you can know the truth for so long, but then one day, your “knowing” hits you in the face as ...

  Ten years.  Marriage does not always look like belly-laughs and crinkled smile eyes. In fact, in all honesty, if there were a picture for every emotion we have encountered together, I know that the tears would be a thicker stack of photos than the laughs.   Why might I start a “happy anniversary” post with such a seemingly gloomy comment?  Well, because there is beauty in the tears. There are promises that are present that carry both amazing comfort and joy.  Promises that are rooted in God’s faithfulness and plans for his people.   See, there is no security or joy in trying our best to muster up some feelings of love and doing all that is in our power to “just keep swimming, just keep swimming…” Being a Dory might work when you’re trying to find your lost parents, but in the case of marriage, it will lead to fatigue, anger, bitterness, despair and hurt.  Why? Because our own efforts of love are weak at best. They are often tied to selfish motivat...