The Body of Christ
Scripture Reading — 1 Corinthians 12:12-31
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.
Have you ever stubbed or broken a toe, especially your little toe? It seems so small, but when it is not functioning well with the rest of the foot, it is very noticeable. This past week I have had a hand and wrist wrapped up in a splint; they are unusable and out of commission. As I have struggled to do even basic tasks, I realize how much I need that hand to function well. I realize how much longer it takes me to do things with only one hand—and some things I can’t do at all.
Thinking about the parts of the body helps us understand the way spiritual gifts work in the church, the people who make up the body of Christ. This reminds us that working together, with everyone using their gifts and talents, makes the tasks to be accomplished much easier. It also means that everyone is included in the project. Often we see only the more visible gifts and give them more value. But, as a pastor, I like to remind people that you may see a nose, but if the kidney and heart were not functioning well, the nose wouldn’t be either.
When Jesus sent his disciples down the street, he never sent them alone (see Luke 10). He knew they would need to work together to do the tasks he called them to do. I am thankful that God made us all different so that working together would always be better.
Dear God, help us remember that each of us has a gift and a talent to offer and that we are equal in your sight. Help us to use our gifts well so that the body of Christ brings honor to you. Amen.
About the author — Beth Fellinger
Pastor Beth Fellinger is a wife, mother, and grandmother who has more than 40 years of experience in pastoral ministry. She and her husband, Barry, have created a missional community in their neighborhood called the Ugly Couch Cafe. From serving coffee at a blue picnic table on their front lawn, to praying with neighbors, to hosting faith gatherings on a weekly basis, the Ugly Couch Cafe has grown—and nothing gives Beth greater joy than introducing people to Jesus.
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