What does the Ryder Cup teach us about unity?

It was great to watch the compelling action of the Ryder Cup golf recently. The incredible unity amongst the European team was so clear to the global audience tuning in as they looked to keep hold of the trophy on American soil.

It had gone so well on the first two days of the competition, but the final day was quite a tense affair as the American team put themselves right back in contention. Towards the end of the final session of play the European team secured the victory, leading to much celebration. The sense of togetherness was wonderful and the unity across all the nations of Europe competing as one was clear for all to see.

Such scenes of unity felt in stark contrast to much of what we often see in our world today. We live in an age of division. Our culture is polarised. Everywhere we look there are lines being drawn, politically, ideologically and socially. There is constant pressure on us to pick a side. In the midst of this fracturing world, the church is called to be distinctly different. Jesus himself prayed in John 17 that His followers would “be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me” (v23). The unity we are called to as the church is not just an excellent idea, but a clear Biblical mandate to the people of God.