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Courage in the face of dissension
Originally published in The Christian Science Monitor’s Christian Science Perspective column, January 11, 2021.
Dissension—whether in our family, other groups we are associated with, or the broader world in which we live—is never easy to deal with. It takes courage, because it means being more dedicated to being a healing influence in the world and less concerned with promoting our own agenda. The question that gets me started and keeps me going in the right direction is this: “What can I do that can actually promote healing?”
The biblical figure David offered an ideal for us to keep in mind: “How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” (Psalms 133:1). That’s not simply an ideal to wish for; it is one to work for, which can be challenging at times. David also gave this encouragement: “Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart” (Psalms 27:14).
As I’ve prayed about this in recent days, I’ve thought of the Latin words e pluribus unum, which appear on the Great Seal of the United States of America and on all US coins. That phrase means “out of many, one.” When I think about this idea from the standpoint of Christian Science, it reminds me of the fundamental goodness and integrity of every individual as God’s child.
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