Main news for 5 August 2022

Usually we think that same-mindedness is something that can be reached or achieved. The expression itself is characteristic: to achieve same-mindedness, that is, to beat until it forms. We confuse one another, bring tons of arguments, or simply persuade one another so that another person will begin to think as we do. The best of us try to stand in another person's point of view, so as not only to make him agree, but also to try ourselves to agree with the other person. When such a situation happens at work, it is called "going to the boss to exchange opinions, arriving with your own and leaving with his."

The apostle calls us to something completely different: "May the God of patience and consolation grant (doreomai) you to be of one mind among yourselves, according to Christ Jesus." The point is that same-mindedness is a gift of God and therefore cannot be achieved by human means.

We know that those who ask receive gifts from God, and we always have this possibility. But what is striking is what the apostle says about the conditions for receiving precisely this gift. First, the boundless God, when we ask Him for the gift of being of one mind with one another, manifests certain traits of His person: patience and consolation. And if we ask Him for a certain gift, then we should try to be like Him in what is essential for the giving, and therefore the receiving, of it. In this case, in order to acquire the gift of same-mindedness with one another, it is necessary to be patient with and consoling to one another.

Next, why do people seek same-mindedness? From the example of ideologized societies or married couples, it is clear that we seek same-mindedness in order to rule over one another or to gain certainty when faith is lacking. But the apostle says: "so that with one accord and one mouth you may glorify God." And if our goal is different, same-mindedness will not be reached by any strength.

Finally, what must be done to receive this gift? This: "Therefore receive one another, just as Christ also received you." As Christ received us means in unconditional mercy, when we were still sinners. If you want to be of one mind with another person, then: a) pray for this,
b) be patient with and compassionate toward this person,
c) seek unity in order to glorify God together,
d) accept this person with love and mercy as he is.