Monday, March 24, 2025
Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then deeds of power, then gifts of healing, forms of assistance, forms of leadership, various kinds of tongues. ~ 1 Corinthians 12:27-28
Written by Joanne McDowell | Pinnacle Member
Parts of the Church
What part of the church are you? A helper or a doer, one who speaks out or one who silently prays? Paul is telling us that we are all expected to contribute. He is giving us ways to have a meaningful relationship in our community. Sometimes God sends us specific assignments and if we are “listening,” we can respond- even though we may not recognize that we have that specific gift. While I do not “speak in tongues,” I have a friend who does. She has prayed so deeply for me at times that the words come out differently- a foreign language, a secret message? Often she doesn’t know exactly what those words mean (interpretation) but in the moment there is transformation. I believe it comes directly from God and we are both blessed by it.
Paul says (or more accurately asks) in verse 29 -“Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all possess gifts of healing?” I believe that as children of the great Creator, we are able to do amazing things. We can teach, we can work miracles for others and we all have the power to provide healing to our fellow humans. Lean into that power this Lenten season. Lean into the gifts you know you have and test out a few gifts God might have also given you. See what happens to the Church and the World if you do!
Prayer: Lord, guide us to our own place of leadership, for the building up of our community. Amen.