ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
June 4, 2025
There are times when I read the Gospels and realize that Jesus had more confidence in his followers than we do in ourselves. Throughout his ministry, Jesus shared many positive and optimistic teachings about his disciples and the future of God’s kingdom being realized on Earth. The Apostle Paul reinforced this idea when he declared the community of followers to be the body of Christ. This was not some honorary title or symbolic gesture. Paul believed that the Christ of history existed in the present through the church. Individually, we can do some pretty marvelous things, yet our fragile and frail selves will continue to falter. However, the collective body is gifted in a way that my weaknesses are overcome by your strength, and our shortcomings do not negatively impact the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit due to the incredible gifts of the collective. This view requires both responsibility and trust, diligence and patience.
Merciful Creator, make me like a puzzle piece that finds its rightful place in your masterpiece of grace here on Earth. Amen.
