The believers described this week make up a tiny sliver of the glorious invisible communion that is the Church. "This communion," Max Meyers writes, "easily becomes insular and divided. Jesus knew this. He prayed to the Father, 'May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me' (John 17:23, NIV). God smiles upon this invisible communion, with its differences, with its superb diversity."

1 Corinthians 9:20—23

Ask God to help you broaden your understanding of "non-essential" practices and distinctive beliefs so that you may experience full unity and fellowship with all true believers in your community, nation, and world.

1 Corinthians 9:20—23

20When I am with the Jews, I become one of them so that I can bring them to Christ. When I am with those who follow the Jewish laws, I do the same, even though I am not subject to the law, so that I can bring them to Christ. 21When I am with the Gentiles who do not have the Jewish law, I fit in with them as much as I can. In this way, I gain their confidence and bring them to Christ. But I do not discard the law of God; I obey the law of Christ.

22When I am with those who are oppressed, I share their oppression so that I might bring them to Christ. Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone so that I might bring them to Christ. 23I do all this to spread the Good News, and in doing so I enjoy its blessings.