From today’s Scripture: “The eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I do not need you,’ nor again the head to the feet, ‘I do not need you.’ Indeed, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are all the more necessary…”—1 Cor 12:21-22

St. Paul writes to the believers in Corinth, encouraging them to collaborate as one and to recognize that each person has gifts to share for the betterment of the community and strengthening of the Body of Christ. He emphasizes that each person has a vital role to play, specifically those considered weaker than others. This seems counterintuitive, especially in cultures which promote independence, self-sufficiency, and productivity.

Am I quick to reject others, due to their perceived weaknesses? Do I assume some people are not needed? Do I have weaknesses that I wish were gone? 

Let us pray: Lord, may we learn to value others and be more inclusive, especially of the weak. For in including them, we become stronger as a people of faith and as a society.

Today’s author is Julia Sauter, a member of Glenmary’s Development team. She holds a master’s degree in Ethics and Social Theory from the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California.

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