1 Corinthians 12:15-16
If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body.
In a world of identity crises, it is marvellous for each one of us to know ourselves. It is wonderful for us to be acutely aware of our potential, gifts and destiny. A “foot” that recognises its own role and function will enable the body to stand and move as it should. Nothing wrong with that!
Indeed, understanding who we are not, as the “foot” and the “ear” in our text do, is very helpful. There is definite value in distinguishing our role from others’. Among other things, recognising our distinctions eliminates unnecessary confusion. Imagine the mess created by a foot that seeks to do the work of a hand, such as cooking!
Likewise, imagine the confusion an ear that tries to see will create! That means the body will be denied of clear hearing because the relevant organ denies its true function. It also implies that the body’s sight will be hampered because of the ear’s interference with the eye. Sadly, that is what is happening in the body of Christ today on account of our ignorance of our spiritual roles and gifts. Lord have mercy!
However, our self-awareness should not be a licence to isolate ourselves from others. In fact, in our Christian walk, total independence is a myth and interdependence is a must. I need you and you need me. We belong together. We are not in competition. As we embrace our spiritual gifts, let us recognise others’ gifts, and let us connect, complement and glorify the Lord together.
Pastor Josh