I am disturbed
1 Corinthians 12
Last week I was privileged to be in the DRC. It has had I believe one of the most profound effects upon me than anywhere in the world to present. Moving as near as was safe to do to the rebel areas we were taken to very brave communities. So why the profound effect?
Was it the fact that they were living underneath an active volcano which clearly had erupted not so long ago? Was it the fact that last year the rebels came and looted, destroyed the farming, raped the women, killed and maimed the men? Was it the fact that these people despite their trauma were so thrilled to be worshipping God with passion, their faith still strong in God?
Maybe. But I actually believe I have been so effected because I connected to these people with the recognition these were my faith family. They are part of the body of Christ of which I am also.
Last night a Pastor from Pakistan posted a video on facebook of Christians being brutally massacred. I was speechless. I was numbed. I was deeply moved. It stayed with me overnight. Was it because of the act upon them? Was it because of disgust that a crowd gathered to watch? Maybe. But I believe it was because of the connection that I have with these people. They are my brothers and sisters in Christ. They are part of the body of Christ of which I am also.
They are the body of Christ that I am part of. There are many parts but one body, v20.
I cannot say because they are a people so different to me, have a different language to me, live culturally so very different, in a different part of the world that I have no responsibility to them. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it, v26.
I belong to them and they to me. I cannot forget them nor should I, v27.
This is why I do what I do. Please join me.
Missions Paul 