WARM BODIES

In the same way, even though we are many individuals, Christ makes us one body and individuals who are connected to each other. Romans 12:5

Let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.  Hebrews 10:25

An unhappy church volunteer was once overheard saying: “I’m not just a warm body!” It seems that this volunteer had not been given the accolades or recognition she though she deserved for her work.

I just wondered, What’s wrong with being a warm body? I’m a warm body. We’re all “just warm bodies” doing various acts of love and service for our Lord.

That has stuck with me and it has caused me to reflect on all the warm bodies in our congregation -- those who serve without thought of any recognition. Warm bodies who pray, encourage, prepare lessons, teach classes, arrange and rehearse music, make coffee, bake goodies for the Grace Café, work in the Nursery, collect attendance sheets following worship services, help prepare for Communion, clean up after Communion…the list goes on and on.

Pastor Brad has been talking with us recently about our gifts. He has pointed out that we don’t all have the same gifts; but we are all necessary in the life of the church and in the Kingdom of God here on earth.

I believe that there is another gift that we often fail to recognize. That is the gift of SHOWING UP. The ministry of showing up or participation.

We all know how much we appreciate it when a Brother or Sister in Christ gives of themselves by making it a priority to show up to spend time in fellowship with the family of God. Whether it’s showing up for worship service, Bible Study, fellowship activities, or showing up to help with the unappreciated jobs that are so needed to help our church be a vital, growing church.

When we make the effort to show up – even when we are tired or uninspired – we always come away feeling encouraged and glad for the time we have spent with other believers and with our Lord.

We are all so grateful for each other and for the countless acts of service performed by one another in our church family. Each one is doing his or her part to serve the Lord and the church body. It is my prayer that we never make anyone feel like “just a warm body” but always remember to express our gratitude for each person’s contributions to the upkeep and service of our church.

And, if you haven’t yet experienced the joy of “showing up”, I encourage you to begin now. There’s nothing that can compare with the feeling of being a part of the fellowship with your church family.

Dear God, Help each of us to understand how You would like us to be connecting with the body of Christ. Thank You for making us connected to one another. Amen.

  Pastor Ruth