For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them… Romans 12:4-6a, ESV
While explaining spiritual gifts and the unity of the body of Christ at a girls’ camp, I had the campers create a collaborative mural of Van Gogh’s Starry Night. Each girl received a different coloring page of one section of the picture. I provided a reference photo and color chart and gave instructions to work with their neighbors as they colored their pages. If everyone did her part well, the individual pieces could be assembled into a beautiful work of art.
A few girls did not pay attention and skipped coloring their stars yellow. That would have been okay even though the mural would have been less striking than the original. But one girl, noticing she had colored the moon blue, tried to color yellow over the blue swirls, making a green (and obvious) mess. It would have been better if she had just left her moon blue.
In art, “unity with variety” means that there is variation, but all the parts work toward the same goal. Spiritual gifts are like that too. God has different tasks planned for each of us, and together, they create a beautiful and whole picture. But if we “use the wrong color,” something will be missing. Worse yet, when we try to fix it ourselves instead of admitting our error and asking God for help, there can be ugly results that are quite noticeable.
In schools, things go well when everyone is well-suited to their roles, and all do their part to achieve the school’s goals. However, if someone is not working toward the goal or is not well-suited for his or her position, there can be unpleasant results.
Today, I invite you to ask yourself: Am I willing to ask for help when I am out of my depth? Am I approachable enough that others feel they can come to me for advice? Do I work in harmony with others toward the goals of my school? As a Christian, am I working in harmony with other believers in fulfilling the goals of Christ?
Because the truth is, unity is the only way to create a masterpiece.
Heavenly Father, how wonderful to know that You have not only chosen us but that You have given us unique gifts to serve You and the Church. Give us wisdom to discern what we are called to do. Then help us to do those things with excellence and to help others fulfill their callings as well.
Copyright Diana Anderson.
Diana is a member who teaches history and art to secondary students at a Christian school in Kennewick, WA.
