May They All Be One

As bombs fly and land in all parts of the world, I am reminded of the spiritual experience of Chiara Lubuch, Foundress of the Focolare movement.

As bombs flew over her head in 1943, she and her companions read scripture as they sought refuge in their hometown Trent during World War II.

When they read the words of Jesus, “May they all be one,” (John 17:11) their hearts stirred as their lives took a new focus. A movement was born that day.

As we are on the cusp of another world war, (although we do not call it such, there are currently 100s of armed conflicts, deadly battles, and formed alliances among world powers), we must be reminded that you cannot bomb others into peace.

Chiara’s experience, which grounds us in the way of Jesus, also directs us forward. Humanity desperately requires a shift in mindset, not rooted in violence, but of peace.

Until we see one another as God sees us (which is as God’s beloved), violence will reign. We have to shift away from tribalism and dualistic thinking, and begin to see one another (even our enemies), as our companions on this precious journey.

So, this is the work of the masses. Politicians will do what they always do (divide and conquer while doing all they can to maintain their power), but we, the people, must explore a new consciousness.

If not, the inevitable should not surprise us, and in fact, we all will be culpable for the path we walked and the division we encouraged and permitted.