I found that this curiously pathological fact cuts through all denominations, religions and races. This common denominator not only finds its practical application in service centers across interstate highways but also provides jocular camaraderie with each other, irrespective of our theological or political inclinations. Basically, it helps us to be more human.
In a world where it is politically sound to be tolerant (intolerantly), it is more important to find common ground. We all know how to wear beaming faces tolerantly, while our hearts are acrid with disagreement. Is God actually pleased with this? Or are we? Even in the very beginning God did not make human beings as xeroxes. He made Adam and Eve. Man and woman. Their psychological wiring was different, their anatomy was different, their biochemistry was different and yet they were called to be one (Genesis 2: 24). Beauty lies in finding common ground, keeping it paramount and enjoying differences.
In the end common ground is Holy ground (Psalm 133). Jesus said, “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” This verse in Matthew 18: 19-20 is in the context of disagreement (Matt 18: 15). When we can agree to disagree in an agreeable manner and love our differences we are on Holy Ground. Nobody puts it better than the 4rth Century Augustine of Hippo - "in essentials, unity; in doubtful matters, liberty; in all things, charity."
So I recommend you to take long drives along with friends you differ with and celebrate common ground.
In the picture above is the SDA Church in Tacoma Park, Baltimore, where I worshipped last Saturday, 16th June. I was blessed to experience the presence of God there deeply. And the picture below is my dear friend Dittu Abraham, a Seventh Day Adventist, and a large family gathering at his house singing worship choruses.
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