Diversity
‘Now to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good’
(1Corinthians 12:7).
One of the great blessings of the Mothers Union is the way in which it unites such diverse
women from all around the world. This is a product of the gospel of Jesus.
We are all one in him. But it is significant also that when Christians gather, we discover
that we have different gifts from the Holy Spirit. These gifts are not in opposition to each other.
Some are more obvious than others. Just as a body has many different elements,
so the Christian family is one but many. The key to using this diversity is love.
We bring our gifts to the Lord and seek to use them as they are needed to bless, to encourage,
to build up our brothers and sisters. We must not use our gifts to flatter ourselves
or triumph over others. When we are tempted to misuse our gifts, we ought to return to
1 Corinthians 13 and be reminded once more of love.
Question for thought: How can I best use my gifts in the service of the Lord?
Gracious Lord, we pray for the Mothers Union in Egypt, with many members who are
refugees from South Sudan and Sudan. May the groups in Cairo and Maadi be strengthened
by the prayer and fellowship they share. Help them to encourage others to have faith in you.
We also pray for members in the Bathurst Diocese and for Lorraine Mitchell the Diocesan President,
as they encourage Christian family life in their churches. Amen.