Better (not easier) Together
Paul’s letter to the Corinthians addresses conflict, divisions, and differences of beliefs that were rocking the Christian Church. Some were claiming to be the “true” Christians because of their beliefs, abilities, or even who baptized them! Paul counsels them to view their church as they view their own bodies…with every part playing a vital function to sustain and benefit the whole.
Perhaps you have experienced something similar in your family, relationships, churches, and/or in our country as a whole. It is tempting to say, “I’ll just do it myself” or “we’d be better off if so-and-so stopped participating.” And yet, the strength of the body (according to scripture) is in the diversity of its members. Paul goes on in 1st Corinthians 12 to paint the absurd image of a body only made up of eyes (terrifying!) or noses (no, thanks!). How would we function?
“Not very well” seems to be Paul’s point!
The good news is that St. Peter’s Lutheran continues to grow and welcome visitors. In the age of churches closing, cutting back to bare bones on services, and/or without regular pastor leadership, we are grateful that folks come to worship, volunteer, serve, and donate all for the sake of the gospel! We have a middle school AND high school youth group. We have fabulous Sunday School Teachers who care for a growing class of younger kids learning about God’s great love for them. We have a full council of vibrant leaders whom you have elected. Our giving—while still not fulfilling our budget—increased by $30,000 in 2023, enabling more ministry than we initially hoped!
The challenging news is: On the one hand diversity and numbers bring blessings. On the other hand, we know from school projects, sports teams, and co-workers that it can be challenging to work and get along with people from different backgrounds and stages of life. And yet, scripture states clearly that we NEED each other. One experiment that I try to reinforce this truth is to picture the person who is distressing me. Then, I think of one thing that I appreciate about who they are and how they impact our faith community. Usually, I think of not one, but MANY pop into mind. It reminds me of how I personally and communally benefit from that person’s presence.
Maybe this is a challenge you, like me, would benefit from taking on this Lenten Season: When tempted to discard a person who pushes your buttons, remember what would be lost if that person suddenly disappeared. We have seen the unfortunate results firsthand in our families, teams, communities, and churches … when we start getting rid of those who we disagree with, pretty soon we are left only with ourselves. -- Peace be with you, Pastor Jim
