For years, churches and ministries have been working together to try and create a model for unity and resource sharing. Organizations like Somebody Cares Tampa Bay have created the ideal forum for such a mission. But, what stops ministries from getting involved? What keeps even churches with the vision for unity from doing what is necessary? The first question to ask is, “What is necessary?” Much of the answers that you will hear about involve regional pastors’ meetings, Body-wide events, interchurch mediation…and it all exists. It is through these ideas that the foundation for unity has been laid and the possibilities lie within our reach. But, what remains? One would assume that with such groundwork in existence that churches and ministries would flock to a common ground and hold large-scale revivals in every city. What keeps them apart? I find that pastors are very fond of luncheons, but when the meal is over, the business cards are passed around, and the church events are announced, a very shallow air of unity exists. Ministry leadership comes together on common ground like football teams before a match. Worship teams battle (even at unity rallies), preachers rate others on a scale of 1-10, and everyone fights to make sure that their church is mentioned in the program. Even translators battle to translate for the most significant speakers, racking up invisible points for the honor of being the catalyst for a big name. And, all the while, the Body feeds into this by reassuring those within their team that they were the best. The heart of every pastor and every true member of the Body of Christ is unity. I believe that much of disunity happens as a result of not believing this statement. Every ministry leader needs friends and resources, help to move forward with their vision. Who better than other ministry leaders to lend support? Church members need people to fellowship with, share their success and failures with, people to encourage them to pursue the passions that God has placed in their hearts. We all need allies. And, that is what unity brings. Imagine an environment where ministry leaders and members of the Body of Christ could go, putting away their resumes and list of accomplishments, simply to say, “I love you” and “I believe in you.” This very unique environment would be there for them to say, “This is what I can offer” and, “This is what I need next in my life and ministry.” This is a place where no one leaves empty handed and every resource is just a hug away. The very next “God bless you” could by the funds you need for your property, or the roof you need on your church. Would this excite people? Would this give them a reason to want to join? Can we create this type of environment? Who is with me? Reply To This Article!