Read
1 Corinthians 12:12-31
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.  Verse 27 (NIV)

Reflect
The New testament gives us a number of ways to describe the church. Paul’s comparison to the body is a great analogy. Have you ever stubbed or broken a toe, especially your little toe? It seems so small, but when it is not working well with the rest of the foot, it is very noticeable. I have had several surgeries to repair some body part that have been injured and the recovery is always difficult. I have struggled to do even basic tasks during recovery. I realize how much longer it takes me to do things when not all of my body is functioning well – 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 and that everyone has a gift to contribute. Often, we see only the more visible gifts and give them more value. It is good to remind people that you may see a nose, but if the kidney and heart are not functioning well, the nose wouldn’t be either.

When Jesus sent his disciples out to the villages and towns, 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.

Pray
Dear God, help us remember that each of us has a gift and a talent to offer and to use. Help us to know that we are ALL valuable and that we are equal in your sight. Amen.