The building process has begun! Our church will soon expand, providing much-needed space for the growing number of people drawn to Jesus. But a different construction project began thousands of years ago—the creation of a “holy temple for the Lord.” This “temple” is a body, not a building, and we are all part of that organism: “carefully joined together in Him” (Ephesians 2:21).
Schweitzer is part of that intricate and complex body. Multiple ministries are thriving, pulsing, and feeding each other at all times, and the majority of these are led and activated by volunteers. Ephesians 4:11-12 tells us that God has given gifts to the church so that we will be equipped to build up the body of Christ. Have you found your place in the building process? Can you imagine a way to offer your gifts to God as He shapes us into the image of His Son? We need you. You are part of His plan!
If you doubt that you have anything to offer, you can take steps to find a place to participate. Pray and ask the Father where He wants to use you. Talk to a trusted friend and ask them what gifts they see in you. Think about times when you sensed fulfillment in a task or activity, and ask God to help you imagine a way to use that gift for Him. Maybe your special interest sparks a new group, or your passion for youth draws you toward student ministries. Do you like serving coffee, planting flowers, praying the Psalms, repairing cars, baking bread, holding babies, telling stories? The Father has gifted YOU specifically for the building up of his holy temple — the body of Christ.
The construction project at 2747 E. Sunshine is an outward representation of what is happening to the people who gather there to worship the Great Architect and Builder. He has gifted each of us to participate. The goal is nothing less than the full stature of Christ! We are to look like Him. He will accomplish this, but He calls each of us to pick up our tools. “He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.” (Ephesians 4:16). Don’t just visit the building. Inhabit the body!