Sunday Reflection: The Abundance in Being Different

To get the most out of this devotion, set aside time to read the scriptures referenced throughout.

The poet John Donne wrote, “No man is an island entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main.” In other words, each of us is an individual, but we weren’t meant to be alone (Gen. 2:18). What’s more, we aren’t all meant to be carbon copies of one another.

When we try to make community according to our own preferences and perspectives, we inadvertently diminish the rich blessings God intends for us. Like a vine with meager fruit, we miss out on the full beauty and abundance of being in Christ. 

Consider the apostle John’s vision of God’s kingdom: “Behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all the tribes, peoples, and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb” (Rev. 7:9). 

As believers, we live in that reality even now. Knowing that should affect the way we think about who belongs in our pews and around our kitchen tables. By demonstrating Jesus’ love to one another, especially when our differences collide, we become like Him—and more authentically ourselves.

Think about it

• How do you view Christians who aren’t like you? What needs to change?

Bible in One Year: Malachi 1-4