Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.
-1 Corinthians 12:12
When I was a child, one of my favorite shows to watch was Power Rangers. Five ordinary teenagers with extraordinary powers would combine their skills to create one giant crime-fighting robot. Nothing could stop them when they worked together with their powers combined!
If you think about it, those who are part of the community of Christ aren’t all that different! In today’s reading, we see Paul reminding the Corinthian Christians that they are each individually part of a bigger body – with Jesus Christ as the head. It seems that some in the church had begun to believe that they were more important or gifted than others, and that jealousy and pride was infecting the entire church.
Paul reminds us that while we are each unique and gifted individuals, we are also part of a greater spiritual body that Jesus is building up – His church. Where one is gifted at music, another is gifted at hospitality. When one excels at teaching, another can counsel and grieve with those who are hurting.
The church of God is beautifully built to include everyone. No one person is more important or necessary than another. When we grasp this concept, we can see how truly incredible it is that we are invited to be part of God’s Kingdom!
What is your gift? What is your skill? How can you use that today to combine with others in your church and community to change the world for Jesus Christ?
Questions For Reflection on 1 Corinthians 12:12
#1 Think of the full body of Christ. What part do you play? Where do your gifts and skills fit in the full picture of all of God’s Kingdom?
#2 When you know who you are in Christ, you can live without insecurity or jealousy. What ways can your skills and gifts help others in your church or community?
Prayer
Jesus, thank you for creating me in a wondrous way with unique gifts, skills, and talents. I am amazed at Your creative power and love. Help me to know how my gifts fit in the full body of the church. Show me the places where my pride and jealousy get in the way and help me to live in peace and love with all those around me.
Natalie Regoli is a child of God, devoted wife, and mother of two boys. She has a Master's Degree in Law from The University of Texas. Natalie has been published in several national journals and has been practicing law for 18 years.