Day 240: Psalms 131-133; 1 Corinthians 8

What is good to the core and appealing to experience is the beautiful unity that exists in God's Family (Psalm 133). This is where the Spirit is abundantly present and at work (like the oil of anointing), and where God's commanded blessing finds its eternal resting place. No wonder Paul so emphasizes these realities in his writings. Today we read them in practice in 1 Corinthians 8. For instance: "Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up...anyone who loves God is known by (has abiding intimacy with) God" (vv.1,3). If I sin against a brother or sister, then, ultimately I sin against Christ, so I will give up my freedom (not demand my spiritual liberties) in what I eat and drink (the things my conscience and convictions allow through my freedom in Christ) to demonstrate my love for a brother or sister (vv.12,13)...for Jesus' sake. This kind of loving unity is exactly what Christ prayed for in His High Priestly prayer:  "I have given them the glory you have given me, so that they may be one as we are one. I am in them and you are in me, so that they may be made completely one, that the world may know you have sent me and have loved them as you have loved me." (John 17:22-23, CSB). May it be so, Lord Jesus!