We delve back into history today, with words from Universalist preacher Hosea Ballou (April 30, 1771-June 7, 1852). This little gem can be found in his book, A Voice to Universalists, from 1849, which I found through a great list of Google-digitized books hosted by Scott Wells.

Remembering that the text dates to 1849, you may want to substitute gender- and deity-neutral language.

The Unity of the Spirit

by Hosea Ballou, from A Voice to Universalists, 1849

And why do Christians thus contend
  For items in their creeds?
An enemy, and not a friend,
  Sows these contentious seeds.
‘Twas love to God and love to man,
  The dear Redeemer brought;
No metaphysic doctrine can
  Compare with what he taught.
Why do we judge each other so?
  This judging genders strife;
It is enough our Lord to know,
  And feel his heavenly life.
What if my brother disagrees
  With me in certain things;
Yet strives by works of love to please,
  And fruit abundant brings?
Shall I disown a brother dear,
  For whom my Saviour died?
Can I be rilled with gospel fear,
  And walk in all this pride?
O may we learn to walk in love,
  In charity abound;
Possess those tempers of the dove,
  Which rather heal than wound.

Source: “The Unity of the Spirit,” from A Voice to Universalists, 1849, by Hosea Ballou

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