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Ephesians 4:16 reads, He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work..so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.
Many university campuses have traditions to help current students and alumni gather together and celebrate. For Auburn University, one longstanding tradition occurred in a location they call Toomer’s Corner. It was in this location that students and alumni would cover large oak trees with toilet paper after significant victories by the Auburn football team.
But in January 2011, an Alabama football fan sprayed a herbicide on the deeply rooted oaks, While efforts were made to save the trees, they ultimately had to be cut down, and all soil surrounding the trees removed and replaced.
This story is an example that just a little bit of poison can provide extensive damage to a healthy tree. And the same is true for the body of Christ. When each part is doing its own special work, the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love. But the body of Christ can be poisoned, losing its effectiveness within a culture that deeply needs God’s love.
READING & PRAYERS:
What do you think are 2-3 things that may be trying to poison the church today?
How can you ensure you’re staying healthy, supportive of others, and full of love?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I know that there are a lot of things that can poison and significantly hinder my relationship with You and others. Help me to fulfill the purpose You have for me, and help me to be an increasingly effective lover of people who deeply need Your grace and love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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