One Mind and Purpose

By Kelly Chesnut, Deeply Rooted Coordinator

Post date: July 6, 2020

Our family has moved a lot over the course of our lives. Each move has brought changes and challenges, and packing is one of those. Decisions regarding what we sell, keep or toss were a bit crazy as each of our kids shared their own opinions on what was “non-negotiable” to them.

But one thing they all agreed was “non-negotiable” was our collection of traditional Christmas ornaments. Other non-negotiables weren’t found in things per se, but in the steadfastness of family traditions — like holiday meals.

I enjoy change, particularly when I’m the one suggesting it. I learned that when it comes to family traditions, my kids do not enjoy change. Every holiday I make homemade crescent rolls, and I quadruple the batch knowing the kids can’t get enough of these “holiday-only” rolls. One year I decided to make the same dough, but I changed the shape without telling anyone.

This did not go over well. The kids were of one mind and purpose in helping me understand that I was never to do that again. I was forgiven for my egregious error, and although I haven’t made that mistake since 2004, I still get lovingly teased about it to this day.

It never occurred to me that this small tweak would have such a negative impact on the family; after all, the rolls tasted exactly the same! I was reminded that my decisions, big and small, impact others. I learned the difference between “me” and “we”: I acted based on my perspective and didn’t consider the impact it would have on the whole family.

I also learned something about the power of being of one mind and purpose through this experience. When all my kids with their individual perspectives and personalities come together under one mindset, they're a force to be reckoned with.

In the body of Christ, we have differing opinions and ways of doing things. That’s not just okay; it’s actually good. But God’s call for us to be of one mind and purpose flows from remembering that we belong to God and to each other. We’re not alone; we’re united as children of God in his family. And our family “tradition” is best celebrated and demonstrated as we love God, love people and love one another in humility and grace.

When the body of Christ lives and loves with the belonging that comes from having one mind and purpose, we’re a force to be reckoned with.

Questions for Reflection:

• What does it look like to love one another with one mind and purpose?

• Think of a time when you disagreed with someone. What caused the disagreement and how did it impact your relationship?

• What are some intentional ways that you can love others to better reflect a sense of belonging, especially when there are differences or disagreements?

Learn more about how to love one another with one mind and purpose in this month’s Deeply Rooted devotional.

Para leer el devocional en español oprima aquí.