1 Corinthians 12:3b-7
“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” vss. 4-5, 7
All who are baptized into Christ Jesus are the Body of Christ in the world. As the old song puts it, “We are the Church!” We have been called by the Holy Spirit and gathered into one community of faith, and have become the living, breathing presence of Christ for the hurting, lost, and weak. The good news is that we are fully capable of carrying on that ministry, not because of our charm or good looks, but because every one of us is gifted by the same Spirit who called us to faith. Not that we are all gifted in the same way…that obviously wouldn’t work. But as Paul puts it, there are varieties of gifts and varieties of services. Our calling is to put those spiritual gifts to the common good. When the Church is operating at full efficiency every person’s gifts will be used and no person within the body will valued more highly than another. We will treat one another with gentleness and respect, never discounting or devaluing what the other brings to the table. Naturally, some will use their gifts more publicly…others will operate behind the scenes. But as we act together in one mission and for one purpose, Jesus Christ will be honored and his presence will continue to be felt.
Thought for the Day: What are my gifts and how are they being used?
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