As I approach my hand surgery, I find myself preparing for the several weeks that I will not be able to use my left thumb and the months that I will have less than full strength in it. I give thought to the things that thumbs do. While the surgery is necessary and still minor, it still causes concern about things that I will need to do during this time.

These thoughts also remind me of 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 where Paul talks about the body and the diversity of the human body and the body of Christ.  Paraphrasing Paul, a hand is not the head, an eye is not a nose, and a thumb is not any other finger.

It has made me think of our church and the invaluable work you are doing, each one according to the gifts God has given you. Some are for missions, some for worship, some for teaching, some for administration (finance, trustees/property/staff parish/care of staff), some for evangelism, some for the care of members, others with various gifts, big and small, ALL NECESSARY FOR THE BODY TO FUNCTION WELL.   

This morning, as I write and think about these things, I give thanks for how the Body of Christ Church functions well. I also give thanks that I get to play a role in this body of the church. I get to share the word with you and be the coach for each area, as well as the utility infielder doing a bit of it all from time to time as needed. 

I am also thankful for those who will pick up the slack for me and be my left thumb. This may not sound like much, but without the left thumb, the whole body does not function as well as it is designed to. 

So thank you to all of you who play your role in our congregation and make the whole of the church function. Your unity and support are what make us a beacon for Christ in our world.

Peace,

Pastor Burt