"that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together. Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it." 1 Corinthians 12:25-27 ESV
As we age, it becomes more evident than ever that our body parts are interconnected. For example, anyone with feet issues soon realizes that their knees hurt, and their backs ache. Those with arthritis, not recognize stiffness and pain in their joints but may see changes to their skin, and even internal organs. Everything that worked so well together 30 or 40 years ago, now are normal aches and pains. The actress Bette Davis summed it up well when she said, “Old age ain't no place for sissies!"
As members of the body of Christ, we are all interconnected. There are times when some of the parts in that body hurt. In those times, we come together and share the pain and suffering. At other times the body is feeling great. When that happens, we come together and rejoice. But there is more to being a member of the body of Christ, than just being a member. All organizations are comprised of members, but as members of Christ’s body, we are to function as Christ would have us function. It is not a social club, it is a spiritual way of life. As Christ’s body, we are to live together with the unity and purpose found in Jesus. When we come together in worship, prayer, and study, we are doing so as Christ’s well-functioning body. When we share the joy of the Good News with others, we are fulfilling the purpose of Christ’s body. One day, this healthy, well-functioning church universal will become Christ’s bride pure and holy.
God, we give you thanks for the privilege of being a member of your body. We all have good days and bad days, but in every situation, we give you thanks. Please help us to be there for each other in our suffering and rejoicing. We ask that you help us as we grow as your body. May we function together in a way that glorifies you. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings!
Pastor Tim
