Day 13

We need you!

Ps Carol Hanes

Recently, Ps Craig Maher wrote a devotional thought for INChurch Melbourne. His words rang true in my heart, and I think you will feel the same. He wrote:

We learn from the New Testament that there are two things you cannot say any longer when you become a Christian.
The first is, "You do not need me."
The second thing is, "I do not need you."

1 Corinthians 12:18-21 NLT
18 But our bodies have many parts, and God has put each part just where he wants it. 19 How strange a body would be if it had only one part! 20 Yes, there are many parts, but only one body. 21 The eye can never say to the hand, "I don't need you." The head can't say to the feet, "I don't need you."

During these recent months of lockdown, most have experienced isolation of some sort. It's feasible that some have even become comfortable with being alone. Regardless of our personal-space preferences, the Biblical truth is, we need one another, and to do that, we need to be together. 

Romans 12:5 NKJV
So we, being many, are one body in Christ and individually members of one another.

We practise our faith as a community. When God adds someone to our congregation, the essence of who they are contributes to the whole. Yes, we have spiritual gifts to contribute, which we gladly welcome, and we can all share in the work, but just you being you is also essential. 

I think of some of the older members of our congregation and reflect on their stories. I think of the years of life they have weathered and the wisdom they bring. Their steadfast testimony of faithfully serving Jesus for half a century or more - what an inspiration! 

I love His Church. The Church of the Lord Jesus Christ is the one place in the world where everyone is welcome, everyone is needed, and everyone belongs.

Prayer: 

Lord, I recognise that I need the other members of the Body of Christ and that, likewise, they need me. Forgive for the times I have neglected this truth.  Today, I offer once again offer my life to you. Use my life for your glory and the benefit of others. Amen.