I used to work the sound board at church. As such I had a role in adjusting the volume and tone of the vocalists to enhance the harmony of their voices. The vocalists had to hear the other singers and instruments and adjust their singing to accomplish the harmony that they desired. If one singer wanted the spotlight or to be heard above the others, harmony suffered.
We all want to live in harmony with other people, but it is often hard to do so. Egos flare and people want the spotlight. Feelings are hurt and the offended withdraw. People are selfish and ignore others. Why can’t we overcome these problems and live in harmony with each other?
Romans 15:2-7 says, “Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, ‘The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.’ For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore welcome one another as Christ welcomed you, for the glory of God.”
The secret to living in harmony with those around us is to seek to build others up, rather than acting in selfishness. Admittedly, that is hard to do because we are naturally pretty selfish. That is why the writer asks God to provide endurance and encouragement as they seek this harmony. But he also reminds the readers that Jesus Christ gave His life for them. He is more than a model of harmony, He also provides the endurance and encouragement for us to live in harmony with others. Wouldn’t the world be a better place to live in if we all sought harmony with others, even at the expense of our selfish desires? Let’s ask God to make us instruments of harmony!
Reluctant Retiree 