I love playing sports. It's fun and enjoyable but also necessary for my fitness and health. And since I am not a big fan of jogging, sports are necessary for my sanity and survival! A well-functioning body is crucial for one to play sports effectively and enjoyably. Every muscle, joint and ligament must be in tip-top condition for one to run, jump, slide and shoot. Any niggling injury will not just affect an individual's performance, but that of the team as well. A player needs every body part to be fully functional, just as a team needs every member to be at their best. As such, the condition of one player's toe is the whole team's concern. It might seem inconsequential, but you better believe it: an injured toe will affect your mobility and stability. So, as a player, the condition of your body is not just your concern; it's the team's business.
That is to say, a local church is, in many ways, like a team, with individual members playing a part in the team's success. It is essential that every member is spiritually fit and healthy so that they can function effectively for the team's benefit.
One of the privileges of serving as an elder is getting a front-row seat and watching different members serve in different ways. Some are visible to all, and others go unnoticed. One thing is absolutely clear to me: a well-functioning body is both beautiful and a blessing to behold.
The body in motion
Let me share a snapshot of the body in motion at FBCR in the last month. We had different members struggling with health or their loved ones struggling with health, and some people swung into action, visiting, helping with childcare, meals, texts, and phone calls—all in an effort to encourage and help lighten the load. A couple of people were bereaved, and yet again, some church family members were there, offering encouragement through presence, getting things done, or giving to meet needs.
Further, a number of ministries seized the evangelistic opportunities that the festive period brings to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. Our children's ministry partnered with the music ministry to organise and lead a Christmas Carol service. The field ministry held a sports evangelistic event, and the ladies ministered at Kamfinsa Correctional Facility. Each of these required different members to serve in various ways, some in the background, others in the forefront. Each event needed generous giving, and the gospel was clearly proclaimed at each event by different church members.
Seeing different members of the body go about their work and service in the last month was a huge blessing. But if you think about it, that's Church life weekly and yearly. Different members play a part in a quiet and ordinary way. Ultimately, the souls are converted, and the body is built up and strengthened. So, whether it is pursuing a discipleship relationship, serving in a particular ministry or the sheer consistency of being regularly present and gathering with the saints, the church body is built up when every member plays their part. When that happens, it is beautiful to behold and a great blessing. Dear Christian, play your part.
Good reflection
Very good reflection.