Consider This… From Chris
As we move through this Easter season toward the celebration of Pentecost, I want us to consider who we are as the Church, the Body of Christ. The Church, with a capital “C”, is beyond the boundaries of denomination, certainly beyond the borders of countries. Even, or especially, in the midst of controversy and institutional upheaval in the UMC, I invite us to consider our mutual connection in Jesus Christ, and our call to serve in His name.
One of the scriptures that can inform our thinking is John 14:12-21. “Very truly, I tell you, the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do and, in fact, will do greater works than these, because I am going to the Father.” Greater works than Jesus? Is that possible? In a word, yes. And the word is “yes” because of the promise a few verses later, “In a little while the world will no longer see me, but you will see me; because I live, you also will live.”
In his time of ministry on earth, Jesus walked and talked, healed and taught as flesh and blood. He interacted with other people as we do, caring for one person at a time, or as one person caring for a crowd. When the risen Christ ascended “to the Father” he was no longer limited by a human body. He continues to be with us, as he promised.
And there’s the hope for us and for the world. As we are faithful and faith-filled, we are the Body of Christ. We are Christ present and at work in this world. Christ now has several million faces to connect with those in need, and yours and mine are among them. This is not just word-play. Christ dwells in us in power and in love, and together we are called to reach out with healing and forgiveness, with hope and with peace. So it is not just we, but the risen and living Christ who continues to do great and greater work in this world.
But there is still more! Among his final words to the disciples before he ascended, Jesus told them to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit, who would give them understanding and power. This year on June 9th we celebrate the giving of that power on Pentecost. We are those who are created by and loved by an awesome God, who are forgiven and given peace by the risen Christ, and who are given power and understanding by the Holy Spirit.
We are the Body of Christ sent into the world to proclaim that same love, forgiveness and power.
Christ is risen! Rise up, Church!
Shalom,
Chris
