Working together makes us better

The JBS Leadership Institute meeting at the CEED building on Aug. 7 was a breath of fresh air.

My thanks go to our Midland and Odessa mayors for their plea for unity. Psalms tells us that where there is unity God commands his blessings.

I was, however, disappointed in one area. When both mayors expressed their desire for the citizens of both towns to lay down their differences, several people withheld their applause. I read this as an indication that there was probably still some unresolved issues among our citizenry, especially in regard to UTPB.

Research has shown that physical healing is hindered by unforgiveness. I sincerely believe that unforgiveness also hinders needed societal transformation. In the early 1990s in Odessa, we put aside our denominational and racial biases and prayed together for our community. Within three years the crime rate decreased by 40 percent. Other important matters also changed for the good.

Unity, especially among leaders, will also change such problems as drugs, alcoholism, divorce, poverty, etc. This has been proven in several places in the world.

I urge people in Midland and Odessa to put the past behind them and press forward together.

At the leadership meeting, the idea of a mid-city convention center was discussed. I personally believe such a united effort would do much to help bring unity and heal some hurts. How about giving God a chance to "command his blessings."

Don Palmer
Pastor
Life Unlimited Church
Odessa