The Set-Up
I’m writing this from a bunk bed, the place I’ve been sleeping the last week as I’ve been counseling the girls from our youth group at church camp. I love getting to spend time with our youth students, and it’s been a joy to see them build friendships that probably wouldn’t happen under different circumstances. These kids come from all kinds of different backgrounds – different states, different schools, different churches, and different home environments. But the one thing they do have in common is their desire to know God better.
When we arrived at camp, each church was placed in one of six different colored teams. Throughout the week, we’ve all been competing against each other to earn more points. From creating war cries and chants to playing rugby with a watermelon to having a mud fight, these kids have gone all out in order to win. But as soon as we walk into the chapel for evening service, their team allegiances are forgotten, and they’re all crowding around each other in front of the stage to worship the same Jesus.
We can learn so much from our kids. It’s totally fine to compete against one another, to challenge one another. It’s okay to have different opinions and interests and skill sets. But when we gather together as a group of believers, we need to set those differences aside and realize how connected we truly are. We are set apart by Jesus as one body to glorify Him together. Our unity is deeper than our opinions and our differences because it’s made possible through the blood of Jesus Christ.
Passage to Read
Reflection Questions
What do you think Paul means when he says that we are one body?
How can we respect differences, but still be unified? Do you believe that is actually possible? Why or why not?
How can you be better unified with those in your church family – even those that seem very different from yourself?
Prayer Idea
Thank God for all the different relationships that are only possible because of our faith in Him. Ask Him to give you patience with those who are different from you or those you have a hard time connecting with. Ask God to reveal someone to you who you have a hard time connecting with, and then ask the Holy Spirit to help you find a common point of interest as a way to help you start building a relationship with that person.
This devotional was written by Tonya Snodgrass.