1 August 2005

Today we will bring chapter 12 of 1 Corinthians to a close.

Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers; then deeds of power, then gifts of healing, forms of assistance, forms of leadership, various kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? But strive for the greater gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way. (1 Cor.1:27-31)

Some read this as the transition piece between chapter twelve and the conversation about the body as many parts and chapter thirteen "the love chapter." Well, it is that. It is also another strong word about the foundation upon which these many gifts take shape. The unfolding of the gifts and how people attach themselves to these gifts and quite possibly use them as a way to "consider themselves more highly than others," can make the community a place of division. So we are pointed beyond the necessary tasks and gifts needed to run a community and Paul begins to remind us of those foundational gifts no one can claim over and against another. Love, as we know from chapter thirteen will be one of those. Without it - the gifts will fade. It is essential to also remember that if the gifted people do not have the "faith of Jesus" - that abiding trust in the promises of God that shape us everyday, gifts will and can be corrupted. As people speak of gifts and the ordering of gifts, we are invited to remember the rock upon which the body is built. Churches may enter into fierce conflict over the appropriate way to do this and that, but we must stay firmly planted in that faith, hope and love that can and does take our conflicts and bring them to resolution, compromise and peace. Sometimes I think we are too afraid to reach down and touch that foundation and remember what it is for our life together.

Connection: No matter where you on the gifts or talents ordering system, we are counted for being one set upon the rock and invited to stand there forever and let the love of God we see in Jesus, shape how we exercise our gifts - whatever they may be.

Lord of All Gifts, let your gifts that you give to us find a proper place in our live and then within the community of the followers of Jesus so that we may find it easier to honor and respect one another as sister or brother. Amen.