by Victoria Heinecke

Bound in love for God’s glory.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.  

“In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.”
Ephesians 2:22 English Standard Version (ESV)

It’s fun to watch a group of people stack themselves into a pyramid. I’ve enjoyed participating in this activity when I was younger, and it’s harder than it looks. It requires a lot of balance, along with some strength, to support the people within the structure. It isn’t easier for the person on top, either. That person has to be strong enough to maintain balance as the people below wobble to hold the pyramid’s shape. It usually lasts for a few seconds, and then everyone falls to the ground. Sometimes they’re crazy enough to try it again!

No one person is more critical to the structure’s success than another, and everyone is counted upon to maintain it.

Creative Commons, Copyright Nathan Rupert https://goo.gl/i5ukhy

The groups of people with whom we associate can be like these pyramids. In a group of co-workers, or friends, different people bring their unique attributes to the relationship. When we come together, we support one another towards a goal, or to maintain a steady emotional state. There’s a phrase used with the acronym TEAM, “Together Everyone Achieves More.”

In this verse, we are taught that we are built together by the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit dwells in each of us, guiding us and giving us discernment in our day’s rhythms. At the same time he dwells within the body of Christ, binding individuals together with love. Through this binding our love shines bright. Saint Paul encourages us to walk together:

“I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”
Ephesians 4:1-3 ESV

Dear Lord, thank you for the gift of your church. Unite us in love, and guide us, as we work together to serve and glorify you. Amen.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado