Sayings

A house divided against itself cannot stand

This seems an apt saying within this election year whether it is the House of Commons or then US House Representatives. I understand that there are at least 64 countries facing parliamentary elections this year. 

This saying comes again from the words of Jesus who when confronted by the divisive questions of pharisees who were trying to trick him read, “But Jesus knew their thoughts, and said to them: “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand.” Matthew 12:25

There is a suggest story that being much concerned about the rise of denominations in the church, John Wesley tells of a dream he had. In the dream, he was ushered to the gates of Hell. There he asked, “Are there any Presbyterians here?” “Yes,”, came the answer. Then he asked, “Are there any Baptists? Any Episcopalians? Any Methodists?” The answer was Yes! each time. Much distressed, Wesley was then ushered to the gates of Heaven. There he asked the same question and the answer was No! “No?” To this Wesley asked, “Who then is inside?” The answer came back, “There are only Christians here.” 

The fact is that there can not only be division with in the church but within each christian. In many ways Jesus can bring division among people - those with him and against him. He can bring division also inside each of us. Prayer is a time to sift with him the different desires and actions of our lives. In prayer we need to ask the grace to 'know him more, love him more and serve him more faithfully in our lives’.

Dear Lord, we pray that you protect us from the schemes that would divide. Help us to discern when division is trying to deceive us and lead us astray. We know that divisive agendas are at work so we pray that you strengthen us in our faith and help us to stand firm against divisive forces. May we always seek your guidance and protection, and may your kingdom reign in our hearts and in the world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.