
Untouched Hope, Photography by: Jennifer Williams c.2004
The Body??

The Body??
We often say that we are "the body" of Christ, but what does that mean? Was Christ gossiping about others who were not like him? Did he look the other way when someone was in need? Too often we dismiss those who need help and would much rather forget about them. We hide our revelation far away from others view. We are afraid to reach out and lift someone else up. We fear rejection. We sit in our pews and smile graciously as we ask someone else to know God for us. The body of our Lord is not withered and afraid, it isn't dirty and shameful, it doesn't ignore those around us and the needs of others. It does not smile sweetly while cursing inside.
But if we are the body
Why aren't His arms reaching?
Why aren't His hands healing?
Why aren't His words teaching?
And if we are the body
Why aren't His feet going?
Why is His love not showing them there is a way?
Jesus paid much too high a price
For us to pick and choose who should come
And we are the body of Christ
Jesus is the way
lyrics by: Casting Crowns
Now I must ask you one simple thing, will you delete this message? Will you dismiss the words in this email as simply more "junk"? Why not pass it along and consider what God has done for us. Will you turn away, afraid to send it to others, afraid to make a statement? Will you consider the meaning of these words or nod with feigned understanding without giving it a second thought. Will you look at the world differently now, or continue to hide in the shadows? Are you ready to make a difference in this world, or would you rather just complain in your nice comfortable chair? There are people who need a kind word, who need someone to care. You pass them everyday. The ones who are a second from suicide, homicide, desperation, and starvation. They hide behind their own masks hoping that someone will care, hoping someone will give them a second glance. They long for a listening ear or a smile. They are all around us. Will you reach out to them? Or would you rather think of your own problems? By passing this letter on to others you can make a difference in the world around you. To receive Love and respect, you must give Love and Respect. Next time you think of an insult, think of a compliment. Your world will change.

|