Yours may be an all-church mission trip, a youth group mission trip, a family mission trip, or a college mission trip, the devotional theme of UNITY and the need for unity among those who may be traveling together is always an important part of helping the mission trip experience to be enjoyable and productive. Unity results when God’s love is present among all those who are involved in the mission.
Devotional Theme: Unity
And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in PERFECT UNITY. (Colossians 3:14)
What is Unity? Unity happens when those involved are one in heart and purpose. The word community literally means “with unity.”
Words to Ponder… I know that my unity with all people cannot be destroyed by national boundaries and government orders. Tolstoy In union there is strength. Aesop
Remembering the Last 24 Hours, consider the following statements (written or simply spoken to others)…
I felt positive when…
I felt frustrated when…
Dynamics that strengthen community…
Things that weaken community…
I felt unity or community when…
I’ve decided that I want to or need to…
Devotional Prayer
Dear God, I’m thankful for the people I have been interacting with in this community. I have been learning so much about life, love and unity. Help us all to take what we are learning about love and service back to our homes apply what we have learned to build stronger communities of love and service in our families and churches. Amen.
From the Bible
Philippians 2:1-4 – If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Ephesians 4:3 – Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (Also verses 1-13)
1 Peter 3:8-9 – Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.
Put Unity Into Action
Make two lists – one for the things that have gone well this week to strengthen community and increase love. Include the things that have brought about unity in your mission trip team? In the second list include some of the things that have not gone so well and have caused division. Circle the things on both lists that reflect the presence of God in your experience.