· 1 Corinthians 12:14–22
A community needs more than its most visible members. Paul’s image of a body challenges the thought that another person’s gift makes ours unnecessary. Perhaps someone else speaks confidently while you notice who has been left out; perhaps you organise well but need another person’s patient teaching. Belonging is not a competition for the most impressive role. Name one contribution you can make, and one gift you can receive from somebody else. Both are ways of participating in the life of the Church.
A question to sit with
Whose different gift have I treated as a threat rather than a blessing?
One small step
Invite someone with a different strength to share one task, agreeing on a part for each of you.
Pray
Holy Spirit, free me from comparison. Help me offer my gifts gladly and welcome the gifts I do not possess. Amen.
Original reflection and prayer. The Scripture reference is chosen for personal reflection and is not necessarily the day’s Mass reading.