Day 11

August 17

Matthew Wilson

1 Corinthians 12:27-28 NIV

Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues. 

Wow, what a body! Paul was very extensive in his list of roles in the body of Christ that work together to make a body work. There were some easily identified ones such as teachers and prophets. But there were also some lesser recognized ones such as helping and guidance. When I think on Ephesians 4:15-16, verse 16 calls out the importance of the supporting ligaments of the body. This connective tissue is so crucial, and I look at helping and guidance as a major part of this “tissue”. The enemy however tries to make us believe that many of us don’t fall in this category, instead thinking we are just bystanders. 

It is more obvious when one has been placed in the church as a prophet or apostle or teacher and thus harder to deny. But being a helper or healer or guide is not as obvious. It is easy for one to dimmish their place in the body when they do “simple tasks” or have a “small” area of service. But Paul is very clear that you are a part of the body of Christ and that God has placed you there. And it is in these areas that connect us like ligaments. Therefore, the body is no longer a group of organs that are thrown together but now one organism.

When we acknowledge and accept our roles, there is no denying the supernatural impact that we have. It is part of what made the church of Acts grow so quickly. It might be what drew you to Christ the King. When we realize our position, it naturally gravitates us to community with one another. That strengthens and grows us. And with that maturity, we go out into the world and make more disciples.

Regardless of whether you perceive your placement in the body of Christ as big or small, you are a vital part of this organism. It is now, more than ever, that we must step up to the calling that God has placed on us to keep us connected as one to achieve our commission. 

Prayer: Oh Lord, my God. Give me less of me and more of you. Show me where I belong in your church. Make my gifts known. Help me not to measure worth with my human eyes, but with your heavenly ruler. Remind me that you know what is best. Lord, connect this church with your all powerful and gentle arms. Let the world see what true connection and community look like and desire to be a part.

Amen.