Written by Johana Batres, Volunteer at Iron Rose Sister Ministries in Colorado Springs, CO.
"Now you are the body of Christ, and each is a member of that body." (1 Corinthians 12:27)
I invite you to read 1 Corinthians 12:20-27.
On one occasion a great friend and brother in Christ decided to go from Guatemala to Honduras to study at the Baxter Bible Institute. We bade him a farewell, in which we prayed and blessed him. When he returned after his graduation in Baxter, I noticed that he was missing the thumb of his left hand.
One day, on a bus, his finger was pressed by the doors and he lost it. I really appreciate this friend and brother, and I imagine it was difficult for him to lose his thumb. Without using your thumb, try brushing your teeth, buttoning a shirt, combing your hair, tying your shoes, or even eating. This chubby little finger of the body plays a key role.
The apostle Paul points out a similar scenario in the church. Those who tend to be less visible or less heard sometimes experience an "I don't need you" from others (1 Corinthians 12:21). Often this idea is reflected only in attitudes, but sometimes it is said out loud.
God calls us to show equal interest and respect for one another (v. 25). All believers are part of the body of Christ (v. 27), whatever gifts we have received, and we need each other. Some are eyes or ears, so to speak, and some are thumbs. But we all have a vital function in the body of Christ, the Church; and sometimes more than we think.
One very important thing to remember, Christ is the Head and no one else can be.
If you are an "eye", how can you encourage a "thumb?" If you think you are an insignificant member, memorize 1 Corinthians 12:27.