I had moments growing up when my parents stepped in for support. They helped me edit and finish that paper for English class, let me cry on their shoulder after that first breakup and reminded me I’m a good worker after the first job I didn’t get. What they were doing was reminding me that I’m part of the family, I’m enough, I’m important…I am not replaceable.
Jesus reminds us of how important we are to our Heavenly Father. Jesus tells a story in Matthew 18 about this shepherd who loves his sheep. The shepherd keeps the lions and wolves away. He leads them to water and green grass. He cares for them. But one morning after counting, he notices one is missing. So, he leaves the 99 in the pen and goes to find the missing sheep. He puts the sheep on his shoulders and brings him back home. That’s how much God loves you. He’s willing to go find you, care for you, love on you.
As a follower of Jesus, we are part of a larger believing group called the Church. And Paul likens each of us to a part of our physical body. In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul reminds us that we each are important in the church. No one is more important than anyone else. When we come together as the church, we become the hands of Jesus as we serve those around us. We become the feet of Jesus as we take the Gospel to places that need to hear it. We become the mouth of Jesus as we speak peace into this world. And we become the heart of Jesus we to choose to love and show compassion to those around us.
Paul reminds us, though, to live fully into the Kingdom, each of us must do our part. Every part of the body matters, even if you think you are not important. I can do a little on my own but partnered with you and the Holy Spirit, all things are possible.
Now, there are moments when your arm or leg go to sleep. It feels tingly and “dead”. You have to work it to get it going again. Unfortunately, some of us in the church are asleep. We’ve decided to sit on the sideline and not be involved in actively being a part of the church. We think we don’t have much to offer and someone has told us we can’t so we believe them. But God has already told you if you are found in Christ, you are an adopted son or daughter. You’re part of the family. You belong.
So know, your presence is important in the body. The church needs your talents, giftedness and presence. Together, with the Holy Spirit, all things are possible. Nothing is impossible with God. Blessings on the journey.