Sabbath Devotional :: The Body of Christ

I wanted to share some thoughts I had this week as I read in the New Testament with the Come Follow Me readings. In 1 Corinthians 12 we read “That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.” (1 Cor. 12:25-26)

I have been thinking about what it means to be a member of the body of Christ. This charge to care for others resonates deeply with my desire to routinely consider how I might be kinder to others or more patient or more present as a source of support or comfort. I always find some situations easier to show up in these ways, and I think the instances and spaces where it is more difficult for me (or any of us) to extend grace or kindness or patience (or whichever quality of gospel living) to others are where showing up and living our beliefs might count the most, or make the greatest difference (than the situations where it feels more easy or natural to do so).

Paul’s message about the body of Christ also resonates as I think one of the greatest things religion can offer is that of being part of a collective of believers, who can rely on one another, bear testimony to one another, and bear one another up. Paul’s words remind me of the imperative I have as a member of the body of Christ to ensure that my religious community is welcoming and inclusive and makes room for all who would participate in this gospel.

We also have the opportunity to rejoice together as members of the body of Christ. In recent weeks both at my ward and stake conference, I heard beautiful testimonies from fellow members who have found comfort and joy in the gospel as they face challenges in life head-on. Their messages were beautiful in their simplicity and reminded me that I can often overcomplicate the gospel, when at its heart so much of it is about joy. I am grateful for this community of believers and that I can associate with you and learn from you, and feel of your deep belief and faith.