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Greater Together
Tim Savage4There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all. 5There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord. 6God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us.
26If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad. 1 Corinthians 12
As we approach Easter I realize even more all of the gifts of our servants, both staff and volunteer. God puts us all together because together we can make a difference, together we can do so much more than any of us can singularly. I get to sit in meetings and observe different people offering expertise and wisdom on so many different topics. As all of the voices join together problems are solved, answers provided, new ground plowed and the Lord is glorified.
There was a time recently when we weren’t all working together. For various reasons some of us were working in silos, avoiding each other and only gathering when absolutely necessary, not outright dislike, but definitely not supportive or inclusive. The enemy had to be pleased with our behavior, as relationships were strained and tearing. I thank God that prayers have been answered, hearts softened and people repentant. Everyone put aside their pride in an effort to break the stronghold that had been on us.
It wasn’t easy! We all wanted to be right! We wanted to fight for fairness and justice, but in the end I know God was glorified by contrite hearts more concerned with serving Him together than winning a battle. We are truly greater together. If anyone had been disqualified, we would all have been weakened. I can’t do what he does, he can’t do what I do, we can’t do what they do and they can’t do what we do – we need each other. That’s what this passage in Corinthians speaks to. God created us this way; we need each other and we need Him. We can’t and shouldn’t do it alone, we are to serve together.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your grace and mercy on us even when we are prideful and obstinate. Thank You for answered prayers, miracles and repaired relationships. May You be glorified to the world on this Easter.
In Jesus name,
Amen