Read Romans 12:4-8 NIV
For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
I love how verse 5 from today’s reading talks about how, as followers of Christ, though there are lots of us…we belong to each other just as the parts of a body belong to each other. Our bodies are designed to function optimally with all of its parts. If one part is missing or isn’t working quite right…well our body may still function but not in the fullness that it was designed. Our body parts essentially belong to one another. They rely on each other.
The same is true when we think of the body of Christ or the Church. We are given beautiful gifts – each unique – to be able to serve one another and the world well, in the manner God designed. When we neglect using those gifts, or we use them only to gain things for ourselves, not only do we miss out on the beauty in the way God designed His church to work – but we let each other down…because we belong to each other. We need each other. We were designed to need each other. We rely on each other. That is part of the reason we need the church – so that the fullness of God can be seen and felt through His people.
God,
Thank You for the way You designed each one of us. You have given us talents and gifts to truly represent who You are and what You are like to the world. Together, we represent the fullness of You. Like a patchwork quilt You have taken all of our pieces and woven them together to create a beautiful tapestry of Your love. Thank You for allowing us to be a part of who You are in the world. Guide us to steward our gifts well and to use them to build up and strengthen each other so that Your church might grow and look more and more like You every day. Amen.
