Some Will Respond
By Grace Andrews of Independence, MO, USA
For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. Indeed, the body does not consist of one member but of many. —1 Corinthians 12:12–14 NRSV
I was part of Community of Christ from the time I was an infant. Thankfully my parents made sure church was not simply a habit, but our stronghold, our beloved community, our lifestyle. They did this—not in so many words—but in actions.
We involved ourselves whenever possible in worship and gatherings. Baptism and confirmation preparation classes were not then available. I don’t recall anyone urging me to be baptized. But, as I sat in the service one Sunday morning, I joyfully thought, “I’m 8 years old. I can ask for baptism.”
I believe to this day the Holy Spirit planted that inspiration in me that particular morning. I could hardly wait for the end of the service. I bounced up to the pastor as he greeted people and said, in definite terms, “I want to be baptized.” He knelt down and looked me in the eyes and asked me why. I quickly responded, “Because I want to be a child of God.” It must have been the right answer—soon after, I entered the waters of baptism.
Since then I have never been shy about inviting others to come and be with me in this church I love. Many have not accepted my invitation, but some have come and stayed. Yet, I have always realized it was not me who converted those who did respond. I am simply God’s instrument. Rather, the Holy Spirit touched them and the congregation loved them in. Do you know someone who wants to be “a child of God”? Do not hesitate to invite them to join our beloved community.
Prayer for Peace
Thankfully, God, we do not gather out of habit, but out of a strong sense of finding your presence among our community. There, may we find companionship and peace.
Spiritual Practice: Invite People to Christ
Read and reflect on Doctrine and Covenants 162:3b and 163:2b. Pray to be aware of people who might be receptive, and therefore blessed, by your sharing of the message of the Living Christ. Imagine being in relationship with them and inviting them to Christ. In preparation, discover your personal testimony of Christ. “Be persistent in your witness and diligent in your mission to the world.” Repeat this phrase throughout the day: “Christ’s mission, our mission, my mission.”
Peace Covenant
Today, God, I will make someone curious by my Christ-like actions. Then…
