UNITE!
by Fr Richard Heilman | April 16, 2026 8:37 AM
UNITE!
I am imperfect. Our spiritual leaders are imperfect. Our secular leaders are imperfect.
Our very first spiritual leaders began by running and hiding in silent self-protection. These were the same ones who threw in the towel and went fishing (John 21:3). Our first pope denied – 3 times – ever knowing our Lord.
But, in spite of imperfections, I will always stay on the side of those who, imperfect as they may be, “chase perfection as they strive to catch excellence.”
Do you see? There are clearly two sides. Those who, imperfect as they are, reach for what is right and good and true. While there are those who are hell-bent in defying the truths of God as they, consciously or subconsciously, believe they are the new gods in town (Genesis 3:5) who possess new truths.
Of course, this is the work of Satan … that snake who hung from the tree to trick our first parents and everyone else throughout salvation history.
And, what is Satan’s primary tactic to weaken our side and gain power? DIVISION!
The Greek name for the devil is diabolos … “the one who divides,” “slanderer,” or “accuser.”
My primary prayer throughout Lent has been for “unity and peace.” This continues to be my fervent prayer.
I cannot recall a time when the side of “chasing perfection” has been so divided, as I am witnessing unprecedented slander and accusations leveled against each other on our own team, especially our imperfect leaders.
You can almost see Satan wringing his hands and smiling as we destroy each other as we are, in essence, holding the door for Satan’s team to waltz in and take power. It brings me to tears, at times.
Yet, in all of this, I remain hopeful. First, we are seeing an incredible revival as so many souls are turning away from the side who has “played God” for too long and running home to real truth … running home to the arms of God!
Let’s set aside all the infighting and LET’S REMAIN UNITED!
YES! We are far from perfect, but I am hopeful that all on our side – especially our leaders – are still chasing perfection and getting better.
In God’s mercy, He has put up with our imperfections for all of salvation history, while He encourages us to continue to strive for perfection.
Let’s extend the same patience and mercy toward everyone on our team … especially our leaders, spiritual and secular alike. LET’S PRAY FOR THEM!!
UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL.
From Saint Francis of Assisi,
“We have been called to heal wounds,
to unite what has fallen apart,
and to bring home those
who have lost their way.”
I LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH!!
Please pray with me for UNITY AND PEACE!!
-Fr. Richard Heilman
Source URL: https://usgraceforce.com/unite/