March 21, 2011

The Apostle Paul urges the Corinthian Church to be a body. In 1 Corinthians 12, the word is used 17 times. In verse 12 he writes, “The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ.” Unity is the essential ingredient of the body.

How is the body to function as one unit? One body but many parts. God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. All are needed. Weaker parts are indispensable. Special modesty and honor given to those we think are unpresentable parts. No division allowed. Equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers; if one part is honored, every part rejoices. As it should be! But, it so often is not…more disunity in the body than oneness. That’s our true reality.

So, what should be our new norm? Do everything possible to preserve unity and oneness in the Body.

Unity is exhibited in the Body first and foremost in the home. Then, it’s to be expressed in the local church. But, it’s also to be fulfilled in the wider context of the faith community. In what ways is God inviting you to pursue unity in the Body in all of the concentric circles of your relational network of companions? Oneness and unity begin in your heart and mine. But, it doesn’t end there. The goal is unity amidst our diversity…so that the world sees us as ONE. Then and only then will the world know and experience the most excellent way of love…the patient, kind, trusting, hoping, persevering kind of love.

Decide today to contribute tangibly and intangibly to the United Body of Christ. It’s the best choice of all.