Christian Foundations

There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men.. --1 Corinthians 12:4-6

Charles Osgood, well-known CBS radio newsman, once told the story of two ladies who lived in a convalescent center. Each had suffered horrible, incapacitating strokes. One lady’s stroke left her left side completely restricted. And the other’s right side was severely damaged and paralyzed.

Both of these ladies had once been accomplished pianists in the past. But after their strokes, they both gave up hope of ever playing again.

But because of their love for music and the piano, the director of the center sat them both down at the piano and encouraged them to play solo pieces together. Over time and with some practice, they began to play beautiful pieces together in perfect harmony and a lasting friendship developed as a result.

What an amazing picture of how the church of Jesus Christ can work together! One member cannot do everything alone. Instead, it takes two or more of God’s people working together in harmony to accomplish His will in bringing the world to faith in Christ.

The Scripture says, “Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? But eagerly desire the greater gifts. And now I will show you the most excellent way” (1 Corinthians 12:29-31).

It may be that God has called you to one specific job within His church. Or maybe He’s asked you to do something extraordinary within the Body of Christ. Whether you are a greeter, Sunday school teacher, or visitor of those who are sick, do it all for the glory of God as a precious member of His church!

PRAYER CHALLENGE: Thank God for the many members of the Body of Christ. Pray that He would make you effective in ministering to others wherever He’s called you to serve.