Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of working, but it is the same God who inspires them all in every one.
For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.  For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body . . .
– I Corinthians 12:4-6, 12, 13a
Paul’s letters to the newly-forming churches of Corinth are filled with encouragement and advice as the early Christians developed both as congregations and as individuals.  I try to visualize the homes, the workplaces, and the family lives of our ancestors in the faith, putting these words into the context in which they were written. It’s interesting to realize the timeless nature of these letters. Over and over again, we in the 21st century can find so many ways to learn the same lessons that people needed to learn 2,000 years ago.

Paul explains in everyday language how the varied abilities of people within a congregation are gifts of the same Spirit, and however they serve, they are serving the same Lord.  He illustrates in straightforward fashion how, as we share the same faith, our diverse gifts benefit everyone.  Our diversity, when combined for the common good, creates a strong bond of faith and service.

As our congregation continues through the process of calling a pastor, these ancient words ring fresh and new.  This is a time of unique opportunity for both personal and congregational growth.  We have a wonderful variety of talents, interests, and skills that we can use in service to one another within our congregation.  As we work together, each of us unique, yet drawn together by the faith and fellowship we share, we will be able to grow within our community of believers, and then reach out in witness and service to the wider community.  How blessed and fortunate we are to have such opportunities!

Your friend in Christ,
Mary Rogers