Not The Same

For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.  

Romans 12:4-5  

We are all the same in that we are redeemed, but we are all different as far as how we function as the Body of Christ. Paul makes direct reference to these differences in our text.  Here, he suffices to say, ‘we have many members in one body, but all members do not have the same function.’ In later writings he will expand on that idea. He points out the different functions by saying, ‘if the foot should say, because I am not a hand, I am not of the body, is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear should say, because I am not an eye, I am not of the body, is it therefore not of the body?’ It is evident from his description that each of us, who is a member of the Body of Christ has a role or function in that Body. God has chosen that role for us, fit and fashioned us to fulfill it, and placed us where we can perform the function He has for us. Therefore we should appreciate the diversity of the Body of Christ and the valuable role we and others play in it. It is not even all-important that we have a full understanding of the extent of the role we play. There are many things which God has not fully revealed to us. As we look to Christ daily, living in the imitation of Him, we will fulfill our purpose in His Body for the greater good of the whole.  

Our Holy and Wise God, 
we rejoice that You have given us a place in Your Body. 
We praise You that You have prepared us 
for the role we play. 

Tomm Tice
Where the Bush is Burning