In Paul’s letters to the Corinthians and Romans, I was struck by the observation that the twelfth chapters of these books talk about the body of Christ, meaning the church. Twelve disciples, twelve tribes.
Hmmmm.. It’s only coincidence, because Paul did not designate the outline as such. In his day, manuscripts were one long, unbroken sentence without punctuation, let alone verse or chapter designations.

Christian community is undoubtedly the body of Christ (I Cor. 12:12). Within our spiritual community, there are a variety of gifts for doing things well (Romans 12:6). Further instruction and elucidation come twelve (ho ho!) verses later as Paul adds, “if it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with one another”. Different gifts, same Spirit. Different kinds of service, same Lord. Different kinds of working, same God at work. (I just moved from Rome to Corinth, but the same “body chapter’ 12.)

We’re all given something to do that shows who God is. The body of Christ, like each of us individually, is fearfully and wonderfully made. In our congregation, it is quite remarkable that people from every place other than here (Ocala) can coexist, let alone love and work together so wonderfully. Knit and joined together by the same Holy Spirit is how it happens. The amazing, forgiving, unconditional love ensures that no matter the condition of our physical, bodily selves, the health of the whole carries us through.

Pastor Art