The same Holy Spirit who gives us the gift of faith in Jesus also gives us the gift of oneness in Christ. Whatever may divide believers, we share the same Savior and we're all fighting the same battle against sin. In Ephesians 2:17-22, the Apostle Paul opens our eyes once again to see that we are one nation, one household, one glorious building: the temple of the Holy Spirit, and Jesus Christ is our cornerstone.

Prayer at the Close of Day evening worship service at St. Paul / San Pablo Lutheran Church, Green Bay, WI A copy of the service folder can be found here: https://stpaulgreenbay.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=df27baab19d526fa0b3f3b6e4&id=cd10aa1798&e=4c13b40906 The musical setting for this service is taken from a publication of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod called "Christian Worship: New Service Settings". The words of the service have been used by Christians for centuries. Known in years past as Compline, this service of psalms and prayers is designed to be used at the end of the day. The service is intentionally quiet. Worshipers remain seated for the entire service. Moments of silence provide opportunity for prayer and contemplation of God’s Word. In the text of the service you’ll find comparisons between death and sleep, and between waking up and the resurrection to eternal life.

Today's Bible reading shows us a beautiful picture of oneness that seems far removed from the injustice and violence going on in our world. But the same Holy Spirit who worked in believers of days past is still at work among us, and the same Savior that sparked their unity fuels our fellowship, too. Find forgiveness and encouragement to live and to love like God's people in today's reading from Acts 2:42-47.