Stage Fright
Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body - whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free - and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many. 1 Corinthians 12:12-14
Insight
During my freshman year of college, I took a class examining the life, lyrics, and legacy of Bob Dylan. I loved every bit of it, except for what came at the end. No, not the final - the concert. Our professor divided us into groups and assigned us to perform our interpretation of one of Dylan's songs.
I'm an introvert to my core, and I possess zero musical ability, so I had a mini anxiety attack when this was announced. Singing was out so was guitar, bass, harmonica, and piano. But then they found my niche - a tambourine.
The night before our big performance (did I forget to mention this concert was open to the ENTIRE college), my nerves got the better of me. I told "the band" I was sick and couldn't go on. There would be no VH1 "Behind the Music" special for us. One of them reminded me that our song Mr. Tambourine Man wouldn't make much sense if I, literally the tambourine man, were a no-show. The song would be missing a critical piece. I needed to display courage and step out on stage.
The same is true for you. Just like my jingle-jangling was a key piece for our song, your contribution to the more remarkable story Christ is telling through the church is unique. There is a part only you can play.
As the church, we all have different roles. Each part, regardless of whether they are the lead singer or on a silly tambourine, matters. We can't shrink back from the spotlight or let doubt, fear, pride, or insecurity cause us to have stage fright.
God has delegated the responsibility of displaying His love for the body of Christ. Each part of the body participating in this effort is critical in reflecting His image. If one part is not fully engaged, it lessens the overall influence and impact we have collectively.
It will be impossible for us to become a truly great church without a shared sense of ownership.
So, today, take the time to consider your part. What is God doing in you for the sake of what He wants to do through us as a community? What is your contribution? What role do you have to play?
Reflection
How has your life begun to serve as an expression of Christ's love?
Prayer
God, my part matters. I say this not to boast in my ability or my accomplishments. These words are not fueled by pride or arrogance. Instead, uttering these words reminds me that I need show up and contribute. I am part of something much bigger than myself, so I must do my part. Not just once, but every single day. Allow me to add value to everything I touch. Let me leave things better than I found them. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.