Some may not realize this, but I am one of those people who love precision (and some are laughing at this declaration about now). I find great satisfaction when a complex system hits a perfect rhythm. I continue to stand in awe of farm machinery, as one example. The complexity and brilliant design of cotton pickers and combines are amazing. As I have aged, I have also grown in amazement of complex music with intricate harmonies and complimentary parts that blend into one magnificent piece.
When I was in high school, I participated in the Army JROTC program. I loved it when we marched and everyone was perfectly in line and in step, and not so much when anyone was out of step. I did not participate in the drill team, but I admired that team’s level of precision and unity.
When I think on the Church, I picture a group of individuals called to be precise and united heading in one direction (walking The Way). The Church is certainly made up of many members, but we are not to be individuals in expression. Instead, we are to function as one body (1 Cor. 12:12). We are not all the same, just like a platoon isn’t composed of identical height, or length, or strength; yet all are to march in step as one. Our uniqueness should not disrupt the unity, but become a part of it.
When united, those marching are no longer soldiers, instead they become a squad, or platoon, or battalion. When united, the bearings and pullies and doffers and blowers and belts become parts of a cotton picker. When the saxophones and the violins and the trumpets and the drums become one, they are no longer individuals but an orchestra. The individuals remain, but each individual finds their greater identity in unity.
From cover-to-cover Holy Scripture points to a greater identity for God’s people when they are united. And in unity, when one is honored all rejoice, and when one suffers all suffer (see 1 Cor. 12:26). We are to march together, individuals with specific talents and gifts, that work together to the glory of God, being the Church.
Our natures encourage us to express our individuality as the highest priority, and our faith demands precision of unity as the greater call. Consider, the platoon is not disbanded when a few individuals get out of step, nor does the cotton picker cease to be if the spindles become dull, nor does the combine cease to be when the belt becomes loose. The parts that fail to operate in unity are fixed, or replaced, because the united and precise working of the individuals in unison is the greatest purpose to work as they are meant and designed to do. The Church should be the same, and our goal is to be united and in step with our fellow Christ followers. In reflection, we consider these verses today (ESV):
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. (Gal. 5:16)
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Gal. 5:22-23a)
If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. (Gal. 5:25)