Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future. There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all, in all, and living through all. However, he has given each one of us a special gift through the generosity of Christ.
Ephesians 4:3-7 NLT
This has been a wonderful week. Since last Saturday, I have been in 4 different churches, taught in our Hermosillo bible school, and hosted a breakfast for pastors. I’ve had the privilege of talking to pastors from at least a dozen churches in addition to the ones I visited. God has a wonderful family, the Body of Christ. Every one of these pastors and churches share so much in common! They all love the Word of God, esteem the Spirit of God, and desire to impact their world for the glory of God. They love Jesus.
At the same time, in talking to pastors and visiting services, I noticed that each church had a little different flavor, an atmosphere that represents their unique identity. Because of the graces God has set there and the vision God has given them, each church has its own special mission and emphasis. Some are evangelistic machines. Some are passionate about healing the broken. Others organize themselves to reach out to the poverty stricken. Still others emphasize ministry training people, or missions, or youth. I could go on, but you get the point.
As we head to church today, let’s take time to celebrate the wonderful unity that we enjoy with our brothers and sisters around the world. When we get to our own particular house of worship and connect again with our local family, let’s be alert for the flavor of the house, the direction God has given. Intentionally look for ways to align your gifts and passions with the purposes of God for your church and be grateful for your part in the Kingdom. We can’t do everything, but we can sure do something.
pastorvirgil.com 