As the human race, we have a strange self- sabotaging tendency to aim for commonality as opposed to embracing our important differences. Naturally, we want to fit in and for others to be like us. We gravitate toward other like minded individuals to feel normal, and for the most part that is a benefit. It’s what brings us together as a body of Christ. We have a common love of our Father in heaven. How this can be to our detriment is when we forget the importance of individuality. Some of the greatest gifts and strengths we possess are found within the differences among individual members of the body of Christ. As Christians, we adhere to a code of conduct laid out by commandments found in scripture; but it’s incredibly important that we embrace the uniqueness of members within the body of Christ.
Romans 12: 4-6
4. “For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office”:
5. “So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.”
When I was first asked to write for this magazine, a bit of anxiety gripped me. I can paint a picture with words, but I’m not strong in the editing department. I ran a quick mental inventory of anyone possessing far greater technical English language capabilities than I do, as well as a critical but creative editing eye. One person immediately came to mind. I’ve known Manon Lawrence my entire life. When I was a child, she taught kids choir, Bible School, and Sunday School. Over the years, our relationship grew into a precious friendship. I remembered a time I’d asked for critique of my book pitch while I was trying to get it published. She’d gently but meticulously critiqued what I’d written and offered some great pointers. I trust her, and I see so many of her strengths are where I have weakness. I was immensely relieved when she agreed to edit and embark on this adventure with me. Not only is she editing, but she is patiently teaching me and I am learning from her. The truth is, if I’d asked someone just like me to help, I wouldn’t be learning very much. This balance of strengths and weaknesses works together to create a better product. This is what I imagine God had in mind when He created each of us so unique and different. We are each an integral piece of this God-designed puzzle. Our places aren’t interchangeable. When we don’t do our part, we leave a hole that can’t be filled, and when we all join together, we accomplish so much more than we ever could all by ourselves. Manon makes this endeavor possible for me, and I couldn’t operate efficiently without her.
1st Corinthians 12: 22-24
22. “Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary”:
In this puzzle of the body of Christ are the loud, the quiet, the adventurers, and those holding down the fort. Some will marry, some will remain single, some will be on stage, and some will work backstage. Every single part is important and needed. It creates balance, stability, and strength. It’s a beautiful thing when we as master pieces, click together to complete this God designed masterpiece.
