“Now you are Christ’s body, and individually parts of it. Some people God has designated in the church to be, first, apostles; second, prophets; third, teachers; then, mighty deeds; then, gifts of healing, assistance, administration, and varieties of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work mighty deeds? Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? Strive eagerly for the greatest spiritual gifts. But I shall show you a still more excellent way (1 Cor. 12:27-31).”
We are the body of Christ who is the heavenly head governing the body from heaven. The unity of Christ’s body is derived from the Holy Spirit who gives gifts to each according to God’s will. Spiritual gifts, for which we should all strive, reach their fullness through love of God and love of neighbor. These gifts should be used for building up the Church.
Almighty God, in all that we do grant us the grace to live lives filled with your divine love and the desire to spread your love to everyone. May the unity of love derived from the Holy Spirit strengthen your Church so that it is a reflection of your holy Son where all who seek salvation may come and be purified by the blood of the Lamb. This we pray through Christ our Lord. Amen!
References:
Raymond E. Brown, Joseph A. Fitzmyer, & Roland E. Murphy, (Eds.). (1990, 1968). The New Jerome Biblical Commentary. Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey: Prentis Hall, Inc.
Jose M. Casciaro, Santiago Ausin, Gonzalo Aranda, Claudio Basevi, Vincente Balaguer, Francisco Varo, James Gavigan, Brian McCarthy & Thomas McGovern (Eds.). (2017). The Navarre Bible - New Testament. Dublin 8, Ireland: Four Courts Press.
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