The One Body of Christ

Text: 1 Corinthians 12:12-26

Reflection and Question: Paul is addressing the problem of factions and hierarchy in the church in Corinth, but his point rings true today: Christ expects us to find unity in the midst of our diversity. Paul uses the image of the human body to express this truth: How diverse are the parts of the body and their wondrous, various purposes! And yet, only together do the different parts make up the body; and they are so knit together that all suffer if one part suffers. Likewise, “if one member is honored, all rejoice together.” How do you celebrate the creation of unity in the midst of diversity in your faith community?

Prayer: Gracious Holy Spirit, we know we were all baptized into one body, the living Body of Christ. But like the faithful in Corinth, we are prone to wander toward cliques and factions and hoarding of power. Remind us that we are one body. Make us whole. Amen.

This meditation is based on the Daily Lectionary Year 1 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).