All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines. The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. 1 Corinthians 12:11-12 (NIV)
This morning at church, a friend asked me a questions about something I posted on this blog earlier this week. It took me aback because I did not know that she reads what I write here. I told her she was a lurker. Someone who visits, but does not leave a trace. I meant it in a kind way of course. It did make me think that as I go through life, there are many who are watching me, waiting to see how I respond, what I do. I can testify to God’s faithfulness all the time, but my actions reflect what I truly believe. I was thinking about all of this as we went back to church tonight, for a church wide appreciation dinner, designed to thank over four hundred people for their service to our church. It was a wonderful time all the way around. The church staff and deacons worked so hard to prepare a beautiful evening for us. The gym was decorated with lights and tree branches spray painted white so that it looked like a scene from the kind of winter we don’t have in Florida. Church staff, deacons and their wives served us a delicious dinner cooked by loving hands which was served quickly and efficiently to a huge crowd. We were entertained throughout dinner by a one man band, who played the piano and a variety of instruments. Afterwards, music, drama and a mime reminded us of the reason for the Christmas season, and we laughed and laughed at a very funny musical number by our church staff. One quartet that we always enjoy hearing sang, but for some reason, during their number, the mikes were not working right. The girl who had the main part could not be heard. As I contemplated how the music sounded with only three voices instead of the four that we usually hear, I recognized that if even one person does not do their job, there is a hole left vacant. Many people serve behind the scenes, rocking babies, working in the kitchen, operating the sound board or stuffing envelopes in the office. We don’t see them at work, but without them, things do not operate smoothly. Our church has been through some rough times lately, but for one night, we all came together and celebrated the gifts that each of us have been given. As a whole, we glorify God and show others the way to Him. It takes everyone, if even one is missing, it shows. I predict that tonight will long be remembered not only for the delicious food, the beautiful decorations, the kind and caring service and the outstanding entertainment, but for the time that our church took another step towards healing. Let love bind us together. Others are watching as we go forward to bring God’s powerful touch and His grace and mercy to our community once more. Following Christ means you can’t be a lurker. Leave a mark on someone’s life.
Leave a Reply