It is an undeniable human tendency to look with favour on those who are similar to us.
And it is also an undeniable human tendency that we dislike those who think and act differently from us.
In short, we tend to focus on what divides, rather than on what unites.
And that is usually the tension in relationships and in understanding others.
In the gospel, John told Jesus that they tried to stop a man who was casting out devils in Jesus’ name because he was not one of them.
But the reply of Jesus probably took John by surprise.
If that man did what he did in the name of Jesus, then he is for Jesus and not against Jesus.
It would take some time for John to understand that.
And it would also take some time for us to understand that Jesus came to unite and not to divide.
We Christians would be powerful witnesses to the saving love of Jesus when we are united in mind and heart to serve God.
Because when we are united by the Spirit of love, we will focus on what unites rather on what divides.