The Church in Harmony

Have you ever sung in a choir? When the choir has enough time to rehearse, there comes a moment in learning a new song when you have that “Aha, I get it!” moment, and you know your part well. It might take some time, but that moment when the whole choir gets it is filled with confidence, anticipation and excitement. When the performance arrives, a beautiful sound springs forth from the many diverse voices, and all the hard work is worth it. Those moments will never arrive if everyone tries to sing alto.

The apostle Paul is encouraging the Christian community in Corinth to work like a well-rehearsed choir, where some are soprano, others alto, tenor and bass. In the church, we can’t all line up at the pulpit to preach on Sunday morning, as much as we all might want to. God has given you unique gifts, talents, skills, abilities and interests that you are invited to use alongside your sisters and brothers in Christ. Practice using them and strive for those “Aha!” moments, expecting another kind of beautiful sound to spring forth. Just imagine what our churches would look like if we all worked together in harmony.

Thank you, Jesus, for your many gifts. Help us use our unique gifts together and so do harmonious work in the world. Amen. — ANS