January 1 | Unity and Diversity | Make Room | Barry Rodriguez

To kick off our series, we will meditate on the oft-repeated biblical image of the New Creation, in which people from every tribe and nation stream to Jerusalem to worship God. In this beautiful depiction of God’s kingdom, we see everyone deeply united in purpose, identity, and worship, yet bringing unique gifts, talents, and cultural treasures to bear in their worship. We will explore how this unity and diversity are both vital to the Church of Jesus living up to our calling and purpose in the world, and how it will require tremendous humility from all of us to live into this dream in the midst of our still broken world. "Your eyes will shine, and your heart will thrill with joy, for merchants from around the world will come to you. They will bring you the wealth of many lands." Isaiah 60:5