4-6 In this way we are like the various parts of a human body. Each part gets its meaning from the body as a whole, not the other way around. The body we’re talking about is Christ’s body of chosen people. Each of us finds our meaning and function as a part of his body. But as a chopped-off finger or cut-off toe we wouldn’t amount to much, would we? So since we find ourselves fashioned into all these excellently formed and marvelously functioning parts in Christ’s body, let’s just go ahead and be what we were made to be, without enviously or pridefully comparing ourselves with each other, or trying to be something we aren’t.” Romans 12: 4a-6, The Message

If you lived through the eighties, you probably will remember the phrase “parts are parts”. This comes from one of the Wendy’s commercials in the same series as “Where’s the beef.” They were talking about chicken nuggets, poking fun at McDonald’s. When the person in the commercial is at McD’s he asks, “What’s in these nuggets?” and the employee says, “parts are parts”. Eww.
It worked for me, because I remember that and I am still not a fan of McD’s nuggets of mystery.

Well, it is no mystery we are each part of the Body of Christ. We have been specifically created in a way to glorify the Body of Christ. By doing this well we help others know Him more. When all the parts are working equally, without showing off, or trying to do someone else’s part for them we glorify Christ who is the Head. We are a healthy Body who does not cut off, or bring down another part with their discouraging comments or misplaced criticisms, Yes, “parts are parts” and just that. One part is not better than the other. We are all parts of the Body of Christ who follow the direction of His Holy Spirit to be and do our part better.

Dear Heavenly Father, Peace comes to our hearts when we discover our part, follow Your guidance and allow You to exercise it for Your glory, all the while building us up. Your salvation, wisdom, and power as head of the Body makes us stronger as the Body. Thank you for continuing to exercise Your “parts” as You make us part of the Whole Body of Christ. Keep us alert to follow You and not our whims of selfishness.
In Jesus Name, Amen