One Body With Many Parts

Now as we have many parts in one body, and all the parts do not have the same function, in the same way we who are many are one body in Christ and individually members of one another. – (Romans 12:4-5, HCSB)

Each one of us has one body, and that body has many parts. These parts don’t all do the same thing. In the same way, we are many people, but in Christ we are all one body. We are the parts of that body, and each part belongs to all the others. – (Romans 12:4-5, ERV)

For in the same way that one body has so many different parts, each with different functions; we, too – the many – are different parts that form one body in the Anointed One. Each one of us is joined with one another, and we become together what we could not be alone. – (Romans 12:4-5, VOICE)

I so appreciate this illustration of how we are each a valuable part of the body of Christ, and we each have different strengths, gifts and abilities that contribute to the body as a whole. Because I am so visual, it is an easy analogy to grasp. For example, think about the toes. Often, especially in the Pacific Northwest, they are covered and unseen. However, the toes help support the feet, and the feet hold up the whole body. Though people are seldom aware of their toes, if one is injured, the whole body becomes incredibly alert to what is transpiring with the toe. It is similar in the body of Christ. There are people who are seen and play a role that is obvious in the function of the whole body, and there are others that play roles behind the scenes that contribute to the function of the body too. Though primarily unseen, it is obvious when they are missing or are not doing well. Each of us has gifts and talents to contribute, and no two people are exactly alike. We need each other to be our best and to extend what we have to offer. It is similar in marriage and friendships, and so often, opposites attract. I think much of the attraction is the desire to be with another who has different strengths than we do, and one who appreciates our strengths that are not shared by the other. For example, my husband and most of my closest friends are extroverts, whereas I am an introvert. They bring out the social in me, and I can contribute calm for them. Only a God of love would create us each uniquely, and place in us the desire and need to create community with one another. May we ever look to the Lord to lead us in the role and purpose for which we have been created, and may we see through His lens, how each member plays a role that is good and necessary for the whole body.

We each are a part,

The body of Christ;

With strengths and talents,

In purpose we rise.

Together stronger,

Than if on our own;

We need each other,

To make God’s love known.

For some are the hands,

That reach out and serve;

And others the voice,

That people observe.

Each person a part,

That the body needs;

With strengths and talents,

Each one is unique.

May we each embrace,

Our gifts and our roles;

Contribute in love,

So God is extolled.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that we each have been divinely designed to be a part of a community. Thank You that we all have different strengths and roles to extend to help the body become stronger. Forgive us for the times that we compare our parts to another, or somehow devalue the parts that are unseen. Teach us to recognize and value the unique role and purpose that each part plays, and to celebrate the beauty that You have made in bringing us together. Show us how to love those around us for who they are and how they are uniquely designed. May our love honor the strengths and talents of those around us. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we seek You to show us the part that we were designed to do, and to celebrate and appreciate the other parts around us that make the body complete. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

So we should stop judging each other. Let’s decide not to do anything that will cause a problem for a brother or sister or hurt their faith. – Romans 14:13

It is for Peace

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. – (Colossians 3:15, NIV)

Let the peace that Christ gives control your thinking. It is for peace that you were chosen to be together in one body. And always be thankful. – (Colossians 3:15, ERV)

Let your heart be always guided by the peace of the Anointed One, who called you to peace as part of His one body. And always be thankful. – (Colossians 3:15, TPT)

 

Yesterday was a strange day for me at school. My heart was heavy off and on, all day, yet my classes went fairly well, so His peace was present within me. Strangely, a few of my toughest students were absent too, so I had a bit of reprieve from random rogue rebellion. During my last class of the day, one student displayed concerning behaviors. He is not the same kiddo that began my class a few short weeks ago, and I am desperately attempting to figure out why. I spoke with him, but it felt fruitless. After school I sought another pair of his teachers to find out if the same behaviors were manifesting in their rooms. One was witnessing similar to me, whereas the other was not. The mystery of this student’s switch in behavior added to the heaviness I was already carrying. With little resolve, I trudged to the office to check my box before returning to my classroom to clear out for the day. On the way back, I had to pause and turn my face toward the sunshine. The warmth on the cool day, was a blessing that I could not pass by. Then, as I rounded the corner to enter the back door to my classroom, I was buzzed by a beautiful blue dragonfly. In that moment, I stopped and thanked God, as I was reminded of His care and presence, even in my heaviness. When I loaded into my car and was all set to go, Anchor, by Skillet, filled my vehicle. Again, I gave thanks for the kind reminder of God’s nearness, and for the peace that settled over me as I made my way home. As a result of God’s goodness and faithfulness to me, individually, I was equipped and able to go and serve as part of the body with our small group at an event at our local elementary school. His peace was with me, and it was a sweet evening watching families participate in a school’s family event. May we ever seek the Lord to be the peace that rules our hearts and minds, so that we may go forth with thanksgiving, in peace, as we operate as part His body.

Yesterday, I was able to visit with mom while she was eating breakfast. As always, it was great to hear her voice and her resolve, as she announced the day’s agenda to me. On the schedule, she had a physical therapy evaluation and speech therapy. Mom was determined to work hard, and I will be eager to hear how it all went. My prayer is that peace and gratitude continue to reign in her heart as she works tirelessly on this journey to recovery.

 

May the peace of Christ,

Rule both heart and mind;

As we seek the Lord,

Peace is what we’ll find.

When we have His peace,

Far better we give;

Unto the body,

Help to truly live.

And with thankful hearts,

May we give God praise;

For life, hope and peace,

Throughout all our days.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You love us and know us, individually. Thank You that You see our needs and You extend Your peace in ways that make Your presence known. Thank You that You call us to peace as part of the body. Forgive us for our lack of gratitude when things feel heavy. Teach us to recognize Your peace and Your presence, even when the weight of the world is resting upon our hearts. Show us how to love those around us in ways that passes along Your perfect peace. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we give You praise forever; for You are our perfect peace. Amen.

 

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

 

Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from Him. – Psalm 62:1

Authenticity

Therefore, each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. – (Ephesians 4:25, NIV)

So you must stop telling lies. “You must always speak the truth to each other,” because we all belong to each other in the same body. – (Ephesians 4:25, ERV)

What this adds up to, then, is this: no more lies, no more pretense. Tell your neighbor the truth. In Christ’s body we’re all connected to each other, after all. When you lie to others, you end up lying to yourself. – (Ephesians 4:25, MSG)

 

Yesterday, as our pastors continued in their series “DNA” (The core beliefs we are made of at our church), the topic covered was “Authenticity”. Pastor Misty began by unpacking that authenticity, in the context of the body of Christ, is fully knowing and understanding who you are in Christ, and living accordingly. The verse she began with, was Ephesians 4:25. We have to set aside our idea of what we think we “ought to be”, and choose to live out the life of who we are called to be. Do we seek to live up to the world’s expectations, or God’s design? It seems like a tall order, yet when we allow our hearts and minds to be made new in Christ, it is far easier to be “real” than attempt to fit in a mold that was not designed for anyone to actually fit. We are each uniquely designed with different gifts and purposes. As we operate in the strengths that God has intentionally granted, others benefit and we continue to grow. Some common telltale signs of those who are actively seeking to be authentic, are those who: speak the truth in love, forgive time and time again, actively pursue peace, and continue to seek to grow as they allow others to speak into their lives in ways that encourage positive growth as life-long learners. May we be fearless in our pursuit to authentically be the people of purpose, for which we were each uniquely and wonderfully designed.

 

Seek the face of God,

And choose to be true;

Walk in your purpose,

Authentically you.

Lay down pretenses,

And all the “ought to’s”;

Discover your gifts,

Then put them to use.

Speak the truth in love,

Always choose forgive;

Seek peace and new growth,

Authentically live.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You call us to be in community. Thank You that You designed each one of us with a plan and a purpose. Thank You that as we seek You and grow in You, we begin to understand how to walk out our days authentically as who You have intentionally created us to be. Forgive us for the times that we have held back or tried to be something other than who You have designed us to be. Show us how to love those around us well with the gifts, talents and purposes that You have placed within each of our hearts. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we actively pursue a life of authenticity in You. Amen.

 

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

 

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

Conveyors of Calm

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. – (Colossians 3:15, NIV) 

Let the peace that Christ gives control your thinking. It is for peace that you were chosen to be together in one body. And always be thankful. – (Colossians 3:15, ERV) 

Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness. – (Colossians 3:15, MSG) 

 

We need God and we need each other. Humans are not created to take on the trials that life brings on our own. God grants us His peace as we seek Him and provides people to walk beside us if we choose to invest in community as we are called. Additionally, one of the greatest conveyors of calm in the midst of chaos is to begin to express our gratitude for the good in our lives. Suddenly, even in the middle of a storm, we find our hearts holding peace. As we set our sight on that which is secure and He who endures, the temporary trials become less overwhelming. May we seek the Lord and His peace as we walk in gratitude together with the people He has purposefully placed in our lives. 

 

O Lord let Your peace, 

Photo by Dee Jones of Open Door Photography ❤

Come reign in our hearts; 

Lead us side-by-side, 

As strength You impart. 

Help us to give thanks, 

Despite what we see; 

For true gratitude, 

Sets anxiousness free. 

Help us to trust You, 

On Your strength depend; 

Walk with each other, 

And Your peace extend. 

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You rule in the hearts of all who seek You. Thank You that You call us to peace together as one body. Thank You that we were created for community. Thank You that gratitude combats fear and anxiousness and sets our hearts on what truly matters. Forgive us for allowing what we see to dictate how we respond, rather than trusting You and what we know to be true. Teach us to trust You more, so that we would walk together in gratitude, ever pursuing Your peace. Show us how to love those around us well, so that peace and thankfulness become contagious. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we give You thanks that You are the God of peace who rules in our hearts and provides us with community and reason to give You praise for all of our days. Amen. 

 

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

 

They will celebrate Your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of Your righteousness. – Psalm 145:7

Peace in Thankfulness

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. – (Colossians 3:15, NLT)

Let the peace that Christ gives control your thinking. It is for peace that you were chosen to be together in one body. And always be thankful. – (Colossians 3:15, ERV)

Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness. – (Colossians 3:15, MSG)

 

Peace and gratitude are two excellent things to set to the forefront of our hearts and minds as we enter into this long holiday weekend. For some, this is a season of struggle, as they deal with the reminders of recent loss of loved ones, or are too far from family to gather – for them, may peace be present to hold them, and gratitude fill each heart for what is before them. Many of us, however, will be traveling near and far to gather with loved ones to celebrate this season of thanks. As we go, may Christ keep our hearts and minds fixed on what matters, so that gratitude for time together provides opportunity for His overwhelming peace to be present. May we join together as one body, ever grateful for all the Lord has done, and celebrate His peace that is present as we fix our eyes on Him with thanksgiving.

 

May peace that’s from Christ, 

Come reign in each heart;

As we’re one body,

That has many parts.

Always be thankful,

For here we find peace;

In hearts full of thanks,

God’s grace is released.

Wherever we go,

Be it near or far;

May God’s peace and love,

Show how glad we are.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that Your peace rules in our hearts when we depend on You to lead and guide us as we go. Thank You that though we are one body with many parts, You have called and created us to live in peace. Forgive us for lacking gratitude for all the good that You give, or for not seeking You and Your wisdom to know how to live together in Your peace. Teach us to turn to You with thankful hearts, ever trusting You to rule and reign with Your perfect peace. Show us how to love others in a way that brings peace and demonstrates gratitude. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we trust You to lead us in body, heart and mind, giving You all of our gratitude as we recognize Your peace that is present. Amen.

 

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

 

Answer me, O Lord, out of the goodness of Your love; in Your great mercy turn to me. – Psalm 69:16

Called to Live in Peace

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. – (Colossians 3:15, NLT)

 

This is such a timely scripture, as hearts are often unsettled as we approach the holiday season. Sometimes the unrest is due to overscheduling, but others are dealing with grieving losses that are magnified during this festive time of year. Our peace can only come from Christ. When we seek Him first, and rely on Him to rule and reign in our hearts, His peace comes and helps us live accordingly. If we are at peace within ourselves, it is far easier to be at peace with those around us. We tend to be bothered less by the little things, and more apt to extend grace to those around us. It is in this space that we recognize the remarkable that our Redeemer has done in and around us, and thankfulness cannot help but bubble up within our hearts. May we seek the Lord and His peace, so that we may be at peace within ourselves and those around us. Let thankfulness rise up and flow freely from our lips for His great faithfulness and the hope that is held forever in Him.

 

In spaces of stress,

May we offer peace;

For Christ within us,

Brings hope that won’t cease.

We are one body,

Called to live as one;

Loving each other,

’til our days are done.

Let thanks fill our hearts,

For God and His love;

For His peace that reigns,

May hope rise above.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that the peace that passes all understanding is available in You. Thank You that You equip and empower us to live in peace with one another as Your body. Forgive us for not seeking Your strength to be at peace within ourselves or with those around us. Teach us to trust You more for what we need to operate as agents of peace, especially during this season of giving thanks. Show us how to love and bless others well, so that they may know Your peace as we extend Your goodness and grace to those around us. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we allow Your peace to rule in our hearts and seek to live in peace with those around us. All thanks to You, Lord, now and forever. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

Show me Your ways, O Lord, teach me Your paths; …my hope is in You all day long. – Psalm 25:4-5

Familial Friends

Friends come and friends go, but a true friend sticks by you like family. – (Proverbs 18:24, MSG)

There are “friends” who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother. – (Proverbs 18:24, NLT)

 

As I have begun the preparation process to return back to the classroom for the new school year, I have had the joy of reconnecting with colleagues whom I also have the privilege of calling friends. This summer, I have had the pleasure of spending time with several friends, whom I adore. I am overwhelmed when I consider the corners of my community. Between relatives, church family, lifelong friends, fitness friends, colleagues, and more, I have this beautiful circle of people on whom I can depend, that mean the world to me. Some have been in my life for decades, whereas others are relatively new members of my tribe. However, all are equal contributors to what I consider the wealth of my existence. These true friends have become family, and it is my charge to do likewise for those around me. May we all invest well in those who the Lord brings into our lives, so that we can be the truest of friends that build up and share a familial bond.

 

People come and go,

For not all invest;

But those who are true,

Are the very best.

The truest of friends,

Remain ever near;

Their hearts are faithful,

Their motives are clear.

A close friend for us,

Is like family;

Grants courage and grace,

And strength to just be.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the blessing of sweet friendships. Thank You for the gift of true friends in so many different facets of my life. Forgive me for the times that I have not been a good friend to those around me. Teach me to trust You more, so that I would hear Your heart for each person that I encounter, and that I might love well, as You love me. Show us how to be true friends to those around us. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we give You thanks for our friendships and go forth to be true friends to those around us. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad. – 1 Chronicles 16:31

The Peace that Comes

Yesterday was a difficult day. There was nothing in particular that made it so, yet it was just an “off” day. I didn’t feel well, nor rested, my back was bothering me quite a bit, and discouragement had found a foothold in my heart. I did the best I could to press in and press on, despite how I was feeling, but that nagging weight just would not lift. During my planning period at school, a friend and I were going to meet to review some student work. When we greeted one another, she recognized that I was not quite myself, and asked if I wanted to walk and talk instead. I of course said “Yes!“, so off we went.

It is remarkable how much the freedom of simply getting out and moving in the fresh air and sunshine does for my entire countenance. By the time we completed a large loop, I no longer felt weary, but energized, and was prepared to take on my final two classes, which happen to be my most challenging. His peace was restored, and gratitude was at the forefront of my mind.

At times, it takes another to remind us to get out and find the place from which we find our peace. When I move, I feel nearest to Him who is my peace. The air that I breathe, the ground on which I connect with every step – His handiwork.

 

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. – (Colossians 3:15, NLT)

 

May His peace be present with every breath that we take today, as we go forth in peace. Let gratitude fill our hearts and minds, as He is our reason for all goodness and grace.

 

No matter our plight,

His hope is secured;

Peace comes from the Lord,

Where grace is assured.

All thanks be to God,

From whom blessings flow;

We are His body,

Let our praise be known.

When things are askew,

And nothing seems right;

Press into the Lord,

He’s for us, He’ll fight.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You are for us, even when things feel like they are all against us. Thank You that we can turn to You in trust, and know that You are for us and not against us. Thank You that all peace comes from You, and because of who You are and how You love, we always have reason to give You thanks. Forgive us for allowing our circumstances to dictate our gratitude, or lack thereof. Teach us to trust You more, so that we would praise You in all things and at all times. Show us how to love others as You so perfectly love each of us. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we seek You to be our peace and give You our gratitude; always. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy. – Hebrews 4:16

 

 

Always Thankful, for Peace Shall Come

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. – (Colossians 3:15, NLT)

Let the peace that Christ gives control your thinking. It is for peace that you were chosen to be together in one body. And always be thankful. – (Colossians 3:15, ERV)

Yet another reason for our hearts and minds to be filled to overflowing with gratitude to God, is for the peace that comes from Christ when we allow Him to rule in our hearts. As we seek the Lord and His will, we are better equipped to be at peace with those around us. Regardless of the external chaos that can come, when Christ reigns, His peace is present in the midst of it, and He provides people within the body to remind us of His faithfulness and give us greater reason to give thanks. May we always be thankful for the God of all peace; for we are each called to live in peace as members of one body.

Let the peace of Christ,

in our hearts, come reign;

for we’re one body,

and His truth remains.

We are called to peace,

together to live;

with hearts full of thanks,

all praise to Him give.

May our tender space,

of true gratitude;

encourage others,

in their attitude.

All glory to You,

our God of all peace;

our Help and our Hope,

where love learns increase.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You are our place of peace. Thank You that all peace comes from You. Thank You that regardless of what is going on in our surroundings, Your peace can be present within us. Thank You that You call us to live peaceably as the body of Christ. Forgive us for not seeking Your peace in the storms or for avoiding others with whom peace does not come easily. Teach us to trust You more, so that we would know and exhibit Your peace in all things and at all times. Lead us to live lives that are overflowing with thankfulness. Show us how to love others so that they may come to know Your peace that passes all understanding in their hearts and minds. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as Your peace rules in our hearts and communities, and we give all thanks and praise unto You. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present.

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. – Galatians 5:22-23

The Peace of Christ

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.  And be thankful.” – (Colossians 3:15)

The peace of Christ is the sort of calm that comes in the midst of chaos, and will cover our heart and mind, reminding us that He is in control, and has a hold of our hand.  It does not necessarily cause the chaos to cease around us, but His peace presents an internal ease, in spite of things.

Rule, according to my NIV footnotes, is the very same word that would be used for an umpire or referee.  That being said, He is whom we are to allow to make the calls, as the internal desires and conflicts clash.  When we permit our hearts to hear what Christ has to say, we can clearly distinguish between our own feelings, and that which is of Him.  If we choose to trust and allow His peace to rule, we are better able to promote peace wherever we go.

Since we are members of one body, we are called to peace.  Christ’s intention for the body of believers is for us to be united in purpose, and established in love.  Peace shall reign, if we are completely dependent on Him.  This is not His hope, but rather, it is His call for all who believe.  We are to be at peace with one another, and offer peace to those around us.

And be thankful.  Always.

May the peace of Christ,

guide our heart and mind;

may we extend peace,

and always be kind.

May we be united,

together to stand;

do as He has asked,

obey His commands.

Allow Him to rule,

as body, be one;

unite in purpose,

and honor the Son.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You are our peace.  Thank You that as we allow You to rule and reign in our hearts, You lead us and show us how we are to unite as a body of believers, and be at peace.  Thank You that You are our reason to give thanks and praise.  Forgive us for not relying on You when chaos comes, or for holding onto any unforgiveness that would compromise peace in the body.  Teach us how to trust You more, so that we may live and love in Your perfect peace.  May many come to know You, as they feel received and offered peace by we who believe, throughout this sacred season.  Be glorified in all that we say and do.  Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present.