Imagine a life completely free of influence. One where every thought, decision, or ounce of bias was developed from your personal experience and nobody else’s…impossible, right? Our world is connected in so many hidden and imperceivable ways. In fact, much of who we are is because of the direct influence from those we know. Today’s an opportunity to take inventory. A time to make change if we need it and change course if we want it.

Recently we’ve watched our country —states, counties, communities, even neighbors—divide into many factions. In a globally confrontational time for us all, it’s never been more important to unite. Not for ourselves but for each other. And because ultimately, we are called to.

What if this year we made it our goal to be more patient and be kinder to others? To those we disagree with. To those we may consider our “enemies”? What if that was the *only* request that Jesus extended to us this year?