For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. — Romans 12:4-5

Our bodies are a wonderful, complex creation. Every part (or member), even down to the cellular level, has an essential part to play in keeping us alive, healthy and mobile. Even the small, or what we might consider to be least impressive, parts are as important as the obvious parts. And when one part is hurt, all parts are impacted and experience the pain. Luther used the illustration of what happens when you stub your toe. You reach down with your hands to grab your painful foot, your face screws up in pain, you may even cry out and hop around on the other foot.

Just as our cells, organs, limbs etc are members of our physical bodies, we are all members of Christ’s body, the church. In other words, we are believers united under one head. Our unity is based on our Baptism, through which we are incorporated into the body of Christ. Because we are members of Christ’s body, we do not live for our selves – instead we use our gifts to serve the other members. Because we are joined to Christ and to each another, we are never alone. What comfort this brings! When we suffer, Christ and all the members of His body share our suffering; when we rejoice, they all rejoice with us. Because we are mutually dependent on Christ, our head, and on each other, we are all of equal importance, just as the smallest cell of our body is equally as important as the largest organ. We are all Baptized and redeemed children of God, and nothing can separate us from the love of our head, Jesus Christ.

Thank You God for bringing me into the Body of Christ and for the gifts You give to those who have served me in many and various ways. Enlighten me with Your gifts, and empower me to be a living sacrifice, that I may humbly use my gifts to serve others. Amen.