EphesiansSample

In Practise Resurrection, Eugene Peterson talks about the “brambles of individualism.” He describes individualism as the “growth-stunting, maturity-inhibiting habit of understanding growth as an isolated self-project” (p. 112). So often we embrace being God’s poem as an individual, but neglect being built into a “spiritual house” with others as God’s temple.

It is through participation in the Church that we refuse the “brambles of individualism”:

“Church, rather, is where we cultivate a submission to the care and authority of God” (p. 112).

By being joined to others and becoming a spiritual house, we are invited into the mystery of the presence of Jesus, through the Spirit, in the gathering of the people of God.

Lord Jesus, remove individualism from our hearts. Especially in cultures where autonomy is one of the highest values, we remember our need for you and for others. Lead us all to the unique part you have for us to contribute to in the Body of Christ.

Amen.