"Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lies in you, live peaceably with all men (Romans 12:16-18).  Paul’s inspired instruction is both timeless and timely. It has always been "good and pleasant" for brethren to "dwell together in unity" (Psalms 133:1).

Affirming the need for unity, however, is a much simpler task than actually achieving it. And for this reason: from a human perspective, unity is built upon a foundation of selflessness and mutual submission, concepts largely discarded by our modern, me-first society.

Selflessness requires that I place your needs, your interest and your rights ahead of my own, for love "seeks not her own" (I Corinthians 13:5). Selflessness demands that I suffer harm or hardship myself before allowing you to be hurt. Or as Paul put it, "Why do you not rather take wrong? Why do you not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded" (I Corinthians 6:7)?

And, yes, this runs counter to a culture gone mad with obsession with self and addiction to rights, rights and more rights. But never forget: the church is not the world and the ways of the world are not the ways of the Father.  Throwing personal preferences and "rights" to the wind, may we build together upon the sure foundation of Christ and His word. Putting matters of pride and self forever behind us.