Do Whatever You can Do

“Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually.” 1 Corinthians 12:27 NKJV

In a story titled “San Diego Rock ‘n' Roll race weekend crosses the finish line with 31,000 runners,” published earlier this week, the writer shared some of the details of Sunday’s event that included a half marathon and marathon and hosted 27,000 participants. And while the focus was mainly on the runners, it was nice to see that the organization acknowledged the 1,000 volunteers who came to support the runners in their journey. Medical personnel were needed for a handful of participants who finished the races and needed treatment for heat exhaustion and dehydration… Scarlette Mullenger, 15, was one of the volunteers at the finish line. She is a high school freshman who is also serving as Miss Teen Poway…. She volunteered with other members of the Miss Teen Poway Scholarship program. “[My job is] passing out water and just making sure the supply is good. When you’re running a marathon, you need plenty of water. Whatever we can do to help," she said.

And, you know, this attitude of “whatever we can do to help” should be the attitude of every believer since we are all called to be team players in the body of Christ. You see, although we are “members individually,” we each make up a whole team of volunteers where every person plays an important role. And while some volunteers are called to roles that are more visible and seemingly more important, others are called to work behind the scenes. But as you can see from this story, every person’s job is vital. After all, a runner can’t make it to the finish line without those people who “do whatever they can do to help” them along the way.

So, whether God has you working behind the scenes or standing on the podium, don’t be concerned with where God has placed you “individually” my friend. Concern yourself instead with doing “whatever you can” to help “the body” succeed, using the unique talents and treasures God has gifted you with. You might not receive recognition here for your efforts, but you can be sure that the Lord will see your work and will one day reward you accordingly. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that as individuals we make up the body of Christ and that each of us has an important role in helping the church fulfill its mission. Help us to have a selfless attitude that compels us to do whatever job needs to be done Lord, regardless of whether we are recognized for it. Help us to remember that we work unto You rather than unto man that we might remain humble and willing to take on any task You have called us to. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!