Resurrection Strength

Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.   1 Corinthians 12:12

Toddlers and teenagers share a common trait. They like to declare their independence and want to prove they do not need the help of their parents, guardians, or others to be successful at life. Striving for independence is often a healthy part of growing up. But it can be unhealthy when people try to “do it all” and “be it all” by themselves—outside the context of community. Then, instead of being a good thing, independence is corrupted and driven by stubborn pride.

At a meeting of the American Psychological Association, Jack Lipton, a psychologist at Union College, and R. Scott Builione, a graduate student at Columbia University, presented their findings on how members of the various sections of 11 major symphony orchestra perceived each other. The percussionists were viewed as insensitive, unintelligent, and hard-of-hearing, yet fun-loving. String players were seen as arrogant, stuffy, and un-athletic. 

The orchestra members overwhelmingly chose "loud" as the primary adjective to describe the brass players. Woodwind players seemed to be held in the highest esteem, described as quiet and meticulous, though a bit egotistical. Interesting findings, to say the least! With such widely divergent personalities and perceptions, how could an orchestra ever come together to make such wonderful music? The answer is simple: regardless of how those musicians view each other, they subordinate their feelings and biases to the leadership of the conductor. Under their guidance, they play beautiful music. 

Living in the power of the resurrection means we recognise our need for God and for each other. God’s Holy Spirit empowers the community of believers with the spiritual gifts and abilities necessary to do the work of growing his kingdom. Individual believers cannot do this by themselves. The power of the resurrection comes in living and working together in unity, recognising and supporting the gifts, talents, and abilities of all others in the community of Christ.

Father of all who live in the Spirit,

you have brought unity 

through your Son Jesus Christ:

help all who profess his name 

to show in their lives,

   in their worship,

      and their outreach

that oneness which springs from the truth 

as it is found in Jesus,

and fill your church with the desire 

both to seek and find that unity

throughout the world; in his name. Amen.