"For he is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into one and has broken down the dividing wall, that is the hostility between us.  He has abolished the law with its commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new humanity in place of the two, thus making peace.”  Ephesians 2:14-15.  The Jerusalem temple had walls separating women from men and Jews from Gentiles and any who crossed those barriers would be punished.  Jesus tore down those dividing walls of racism, sexism, social class, culture and language that prevent us from loving and caring for our neighbors.  He made us all one with no one better than another.  Besides loving him, he calls us to love our neighbors, having compassion for all.  We need to celebrate our differences and remember that God made us all in his likeness.  He calls for one new humanity and for peace in our world.  We as individuals and as a church need to welcome all and celebrate that peace Jesus gives us.  Prayer: Merciful God, you hear the cries of the needy.  In your compassion, heal the pain of all who suffer.  Make us bold to ask for what we need and to receive your gifts with thanksgiving and praise.  Help us to celebrate that we are all one and your children.  Amen