Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Unity in Diversity : Celebrate individual strengths in family

Bible Reading:  Romans 12:4-6

Key verse: We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. Romans 12:6

DEVOTION

Growing up, we have all learnt about how plants grow. Starting with a seed that sprouts, the seedling grows roots and shoots. The root stays underground while the shoot grows leaves above the ground. It is the root’s job to hold the plant firmly in the ground and draw nourishment from the surrounding soil, while the shoot and the leaves draw nourishment from the sun. Together, they provide the necessary environment for the plant to grow. Each part has a unique and different task and it is very good at its job. Neither does the root try to take on the leaf’s job nor does the shoot try to do the root’s job. They all need each other and they all work together to be a healthy plant that grows flowers and fruits. 
Our family units are very much like the plant. Each family member has a unique place of importance and it is when we come together and work together, we make each other whole. It is very important we appreciate each other’s strengths and weaknesses and demonstrate empathy and sensitivity towards each other. In his letter to the Corinthians (specifically in chapter 12), Paul talks about the gifts of the Holy Spirit and how we are all different parts of the same body - which is the body of Christ. Each of us are blessed with gifts that are unique to us and we have a special purpose based on where we are placed. Just like the different parts of the body have their own unique place and purpose, we also have special roles to fulfill during our lifetime. Imagine placing the hand where the ear is supposed to be and the ear where the leg is supposed to be. That is a sure shot recipe for downfall (pun fully intended). 
It is when you have been given the gift of the Holy Spirit, you bear the fruits of the Holy Spirit and that in turn creates a blessed family. In his letter to the Galatians, Paul speaks about the fruits of the Holy Spirit which are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility, and self-control. If you look closely, these are the qualities that each of us need to have and demonstrate as family members. Let us continue to use our gifts to glorify our Lord and stay blessed.

PRAYER

Dear Lord, thank you for blessing us with your gifts. Help us to use our gifts wisely so that we may enjoy the fruits of your Spirit. Amen.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

We must embrace our differences, even celebrate our diversity. We must glory in the fact that God created each of us as unique human beings. God created us different, but God did not create us for separation. God created us different that we might recognize our need for one another. We must reverence our uniqueness, reverence everything that makes us what we are: our language, our culture, our religious tradition - Desmond Tutu. 

Susan Cherian Varghese
Epiphany MTC, New York

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