Love and Thanks for the Body of Christ

            Have you considered the church lately?  That might seem an odd question since you are most likely reading this on Sunday either before our after our worship.  But have you thought about the Lord's body in a way that made you glad you were a part of it and truly believed you were among a special people?

            The design of the Father is perfect.  The church is the body of Christ and the bride of Christ.  Both of these comparisons show that not only does Jesus Christ love His people, but He considers them part of Himself.  Put a different way, the church is married to and a part of the Creator of the universe.  How could we not appreciate something so awe inspiring and profound?  As members of Christ's church we are humbled at so great a privilege. 

            If we are appreciative and humbled by the honor to be a part of the church then we will look at other members of the body in a new light.  Understanding that the Lord loves other Christians just as much will help us not to become prideful.  We will realize neither we nor our brothers and sisters in Christ are above making mistakes.  Perhaps we may find cause to be angry at another Christian, but knowing the Lord also died for the one who wronged us will hopefully cause our patience and forgiveness to be overflowing.

            Remember what Jesus said about the unforgiving servant?  The man was in great debt and when it was time to pay up, he begged for mercy and mercy was granted.  He then went to his fellow servant and harshly demanded payment and enacted punishment.  The end result was that when the master was informed, the unmerciful servant was condemned and imprisoned.  How much better off would he have been if only he had showed his brother a fraction of the mercy he had received?

Love, forgiveness and mercy should all be shown by the Christian.  How would you treat Jesus if He were here in bodily form right now?  Is this any different than you treat His body the church?  Should it be?  God designed the church.  His design is perfect.  People are flawed.  Let's be patient with each other, forgive when necessary and love always.  Give thanks daily for the church!

"Beloved, if God so loved us we also ought to love one another."  -1 John 4:11