You’ve probably heard the expression “it takes a village”. I tend to hear it as a polite way to indicate, or lament, that it’s going to take a lot more than a single person, or at least than the smaller number originally suggested. I’m not sure if its phraseology accounts for considering how varied gifts are represented and utilized from said required village, but that’s certainly what Paul was getting at in his version.
The Body of Christ is a reminder that one person is never enough. As I said on my first Sunday: it’s all about relationships, one version of which is acknowledging that not one of us could ever do this alone, no matter what “this” is. But this week I’m especially grateful for that other part of “it takes a body”, that the expression of our community is never limited to the gifts or passions of any single one of us.
Growing up I hated decorating for holidays. This prompted a conversation with my parents, and was one of many that ultimately landed on: when you live in your own place, you don’t have to do this anymore. So, I don’t.
But I love Advent, and one of my favorite moments each year is the progression of it. Not just of the four Sunday journey towards Christmas, but the transformation of the sanctuary. Which is why I’m so glad the decorating of our sanctuary was directed and achieved not by just me, but by a dozen of you giving your time and passion (and telling me what to carry and where to put things) to achieve a beautiful, seasonal setting.
Also this week, another step in the exciting Depot Park Ministry opportunity. Following the incredible response of donated goods to share with our neighbors, someone asked the question I dare say none of us anticipated needing such an immediate and substantial answer to: where do we put all of this stuff??? Some hard work, ingenuity, and reorganizing and we’re in business. Meaning once again the diverse giftedness of a Body of Christ is at work.
I share these in part because I want to say thank you to all who had different roles in them and so many other ministries of First Bonita. And also to encourage you to know that your giftedness matters. Is needed. I have the privilege of being up front and amplified during worship, but worship wouldn’t happen without a team of staff and volunteers. Some people will serve breakfast tomorrow morning here in the fellowship hall, or later Saturdays at Depot Park, and many more will have worked, donated, prayed, and supported them in other ways.
It takes a Body, and one thing I’m thankful for is the opportunity to be a part of this Body with you. I pray that we would continue to be open to the movement of the Holy Spirit, and that each of us would open ourselves to be a part of this unique Body of Christ for God’s kingdom.
With gratitude,
Ben
