Focus

Let yourself become open to God and the knowledge that comes from the Word. Ask God for peace at this time.

---

Read

1 Corinthians 12:27-31 (NRSV)

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.

---

Reflect

What special gifts do you have to share with someone? God give us many special abilities, but these are received through the Holy Spirit.

There are many ways God works in our lives. The Holy Spirit shows us God’s power through each of us as a means of helping the entire church. The Holy Spirit may give one person the ability to give wise advice. Another person may be especially good at teaching others. Someone else may have especially strong faith while another has the gift of healing.

Even though we have different gifts, through the Holy Spirit we become the body of Christ. Even though some members may not seem as important, we are all equally needed. God has put the body of Christians together in such a way that honor and care should be given to those who are weaker. We have been baptized into Christ’s body by receiving the same Holy Spirit so we can work for the glory of Christ.

---

Pray

Dear Lord, thank you for the many gifts that exist within your church. Help us to recognize these gifts and encourage their use, remembering that you have given them all and that each one has a purpose. Amen.

Go with God.