The following is my church "lead article" for the July newsletter of First Lutheran Church, West Okoboji, Iowa:
“The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body.”
- I Corinthians 12:12
The Apostle Paul understood that the Church of Jesus Christ is most healthy, most effective in its mission, when all the parts are working properly as God designed them. Every part (member) has a gift to offer, a talent to share for the common good. Like any human body, the Church functions best when all the parts are working in concert with one another. Paul writes, “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.”
This past year I have been reflecting deeply on the nature of Christ’s church. Through the struggle and transition, I have been deeply blessed by the variety of members who have stepped forward to share their gifts/talents/passions to help make the body of Christ at First Lutheran stronger. It truly is a joy to witness the members of our congregation working together in harmony, all for the common good. As Paul describes so colorfully, “The eye cannot say to the ear, I don’t need you...or the foot cannot say to the hand, I don’t need you.” We all have a place! We all have a function! We all find our greatest fulfillment in relation to one another.
I would like to dedicate this edition of the Proclaim to the humble servants who continue to extend themselves with joy for the work and ministry of Christ’s church, Christ’s body. I know that if I single out a few, many will be left out. If I single out many, I will still miss some very important folks who have given so much.
Dee and I have been carried along this past year by your prayers, affection and sincere willingness to go beyond the call of duty. The cards, letters, emails, and personal words of encouragement have meant so much. My 25th year of ministry may not have been my easiest year, but it was one of the most tender and meaningful. I am honored to be your pastor and look forward to many new adventures together.
The Church has been around for a long time. It was instituted by Jesus Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit. There will be peaks and valleys. There will be highs and lows, good times and bad times. The church will be attacked by enemies within and without. But as the old hymn says, “The church’s one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord.” It will not be shaken!
Yes, we are the body of Christ! We’re not all the same. We have different functions. But when we work together in love, GET OUT OF THE WAY! There’s no telling what God can do in and through us.
May God continue to bless and keep us in grace! May God’s Spirit bring out our best gifts and use them for the work of his kingdom!
In Christ’s power,
Pastor Bob
