Today’s Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:13, 28-30
Isn’t it amazing how we can associate, work, or worship with people but we don’t really know them? Sometimes we don’t even know their names.
For months, I had shown up for choir practice and remained secluded with the altos. I sat by the same people but never bothered to learn their names. The sad truth is that I didn’t care about their names. My focus remained on me and the tiny part I played in the choir.
When the director brought us out of our small alto world and set us on the risers, he instructed us to know who was standing next to us. He did this for a couple of reasons. First, if we were going to sing with them for seven performances, we should at least know their names, right? Second, if we lost our place on the risers, we could simply look for our alto neighbors and go stand between them. I had to admit that I felt much more secure singing my part knowing I had two new friends (Nancy and Meredith) supporting me on either side. And, I supported them.
Paul talks about the different types of people in the church—Jews, Greeks, slaves, free, apostles, prophets, teachers, gifted and anointed people—each one with a different story, but none intended to stand alone.
There’s a reason scripture tells us more than once that we are to be united—connected—knitted—joined together. This life isn’t a solo run. It’s a team effort. Know who’s standing next to you. You can support each other so everyone stays in place.
- How do you learn the stories of those around you?
- What can you do to better support them so they can excel in their gifts?