| Psalms 133:1 – “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!’ |
The first thing that comes to mind is the word, ‘Behold.’ I just finished ‘Camp Cousins’ having five of my grandchildren for a week filled with fun (and lots of unity). One thing we do every year is to learn a song in sign language. This year we learned “These are the days of Elijah’. The tune is upbeat, and one cousin is named ‘Elijah’, so all the kids agreed that it would be a good one to learn. Anyway, the first word in the chorus line is “Behold”. “Behold, He comes riding on the clouds, shining like the sun at the trumpet call…” The sign for ‘Behold’ is pointing the index and middle fingers of each hand (V shape) to whatever you’re focusing on. In this case, we point to the sky with those four fingers, as if we are looking at the return of Jesus. A very important event!
It struck me that this Scripture is pointing to something very important! ‘Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!’ God is pointing us to be of one mind in our love for Christ and for each other. The kids were a blast to be with as they were excited to be together, showing love and sharing with each other. God takes joy in our behaving like that with one another. Our bickering and fighting do not bring joy to God or to us. A Harvard University study found that “close relationships spanning a lifetime can possibly alleviate pain levels, aid the nervous system, and keep the brain healthier longer, whereas those with a prolonged sense of loneliness may have a shorter lifespan.”
If you are not involved with a Christ centered church, don’t delay in finding that gift of family. Find unity with those who have hope for a bright future, as you all live in a way that points to God.
–Vicki Rance
