Sunday, October 16, 2005
Romans 12
4Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, 5so it is with Christ's body. We are all parts of his one body, and each of us has different work to do. And since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others.
And isn't it amazing how the body of Christ has come together in this effort! Thank you Lord and Amen!
6God has given each of us the ability to do certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out when you have faith that God is speaking through you. 7If your gift is that of serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, do a good job of teaching. 8If your gift is to encourage others, do it! If you have money, share it generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.
All of us who have worked on this project have continuing responsibilities listed in verses 6-8. Also important, not everyone is called to each task. Some of us are called to serve. Some are not, but are called to other functions in the body. Some have funding to give, while others do not. We have to keep this in mind when the accuser tempts us to judge others by our own calling.
9Don't just pretend that you love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Stand on the side of the good. 10Love each other with genuine affection,[b] and take delight in honoring each other. 11Never be lazy in your work, but serve the Lord enthusiastically.
Our emotions about this project, the people we have helped, and the people we have worked shoulder to shoulder with are God given. Revel in them and use them to show others the passion we have found in this work. It helps to illustrate the fulfillment they can find in devoting themselves to work in God's Kingdom.
As of this Sunday morning, there is no-one scheduled to participate in the next trip. We need to be working with our friends, coworkers, family, and churches to build groups going forward.
