Belonging to Christ is not just an individual thing

Scripture Verse that Caught my attention today: 2 Corinthians 10:7 Look at what is before your eyes. If you are confident that you belong to Christ, remind yourself of this, that just as you belong to Christ, so also do we.

Observation: Paul was quick to ascertain the expansive grace of God and see that it would not be limited to a select few who think too highly of themselves.

Application: Every once in a while we all run across people who seem to act as if they think they know it all. They may be one of our classmates in school, one of our colleagues at work, one of our family members at home, or even one of our fellow members at church. Such folks tend to rub us the wrong way.

Part of the issue revolves around an inability to see Christ in each other—to trust that Christ can work through the other. Whenever anyone insists on his or her own way as the only way, well, for me that is usually a pretty big red flag. It seems to me that the only person in history who was able to insist on his own way with authenticity was Christ himself. It was Jesus who said, “I am the way, and the truth and the life.” All of us pale in comparison to him.

Since the time of Christ, individuals were no longer called to make decisions in regard to the community of Christ in a vacuum. Rather, even foundational leaders like Peter and Paul would discuss things with other leaders of the Christian church and come to consensus. Paul understood that belonging to Christ is never something to Lord over but, rather, serve in light of. Such service is through the community of faith but also with the community of faith rather than opposed and/or against the community of faith. Regard for the community of faith and its witness to the world takes precedence over individual ambition and/or even one’s raw ability.

This may be why the popular little song “Let Us Talents and Tongues Employ” goes on to say, “reaching out with a shout of joy.”

True joy is found when we recognize and cherish the work of God in each other and, most importantly, the work of God through us together rather than trying to impress each other with our individual gifts.

Prayer: Lord, throughout my life you have blessed me with a host of people through whom it is clear that you work. I gladly yield, in many cases, to the wisdom found in community—as well I should. I dearly thank you for that. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

(Readings today included: 1 Samuel 8-10 and 2 Corinthians 10)