Waiting in the Wings

For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God.

Tag: body of Christ

In the Form of Christ

“One Body (Unity in Christ)” by Meghan Williams of Dyed4you Art

{vision} I saw different American Olympic athletes posing as if for a photo shoot meant to display their new team uniforms. What stood out to me was that, although the athletes had different types of uniforms based on their sport, all of the uniforms used the same set of colors. (Royal blue was the predominant color.) The consistency of the color is what would make it clear to others that they were all on the same team.

As I pressed in for the download for this vision, I was led to look up the definition of the word uniform. As a noun, the Concise Oxford English Dictionary defines uniform as “the distinctive clothing worn by members of the same organization or body or by children attending certain schools.” Looking at the etymology of the word, uniform is derived from the latin uniformis, uni- meaningone; having or consisting of oneand form meaning “body, shape, or configuration.” Immediately, I thought of the fact that humans are made in the image or “form” of God. 

Deuteronomy 6:4 highlights an important aspect of God’s nature; it tells us that “The LORD is our God, the LORD is one.” In this verse, the word for one in Hebrew is echad. Echad has a variety of nuances, including uniqueness, singularity, and compound unity. Certainly, the Body of Christ is meant to express echad with many members acting together as one. Though each of us has a unique purpose and function in the Body, we all work towards a common goal—that upward call of God in Christ (Philippians 3:14). 

Our unity is akin to the unity among Olympic athletes; though they each may compete in different sports, an individual’s actions will ultimately reflect upon their entire team as well as their nation. Olympic athletes represent a nation’s best as far as prowess in their sport. They train hard and are proud to compete on behalf of their country. I also imagine they must also be proud to wear their uniforms, the very symbol of their role as an Olympic athlete.

It is much the same for those of us who follow the call of Christ. For by the Spirit, we train hard to crucify our flesh and become mighty athletes of the Spirit. We are proud to walk the earth and represent the Kingdom of Heaven. Most of all, we display our unity by putting on Christ. When clothed with love, anyone who encounters us knows which team we are proudly playing for. 

Galatians 3:27 (NLT) And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes.

Galatians 5:22-23 (TPT) But the fruit produced by the Holy Spirit within you is divine love in all its varied expressions: joy that overflows, peace that subdues, patience that endures, kindness in action, a life full of virtue, faith that prevails, gentleness of heart, and strength of spirit. Never set the law above these qualities, for they are meant to be limitless.

John 13:35 (NKJV) By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.

Arise and Build

“Igniting Hearts” by Meghan Williams, Dyed4you Art

Beloved, I know that there are moments when you feel intimidated by the call on your life or the measure of the gifts I have given you. When fear tempts you to hold back what I have placed inside you, remember My purpose for raising you up. I lift you up that others may be drawn to the Light of My Spirit within you. 

I have imparted My Spirit, the gifts, and the offices for the building up of the Body. When each member embraces their role and does their part, it opens the door for My will to be made manifest in the earth. From this perspective, not one of you is insignificant or useless. In fact, each of you is a vital part of My Kingdom plan.

I stir you up now to arise and not hold back what I have placed inside you. Let your light shine and let your testimony be heard. Watch as I draw those to you who need the same healing, comfort, and truth that I have given to you. Build them up as I have built you up. Raise them up as I am now raising you up. Arise, and build up the Body.

Ephesians 4:11-12 (VOICE) It was the risen One who handed down to us such gifted leaders—some emissaries, some prophets, some evangelists, as well as some pastor-teachers— so that God’s people would be thoroughly equipped to minister and build up the body of the Anointed One.

1 Corinthians 14:12 (VOICE) It’s the same with you; in your passion for spiritual gifts, seek to strengthen the community of believers, and you will all be better off.

Powered by WordPress & Theme by Anders Norén