Body Language
The body image of the Church teaches great lessons. God used that analogy probably because each one of us has a body and we understand the concept so well. One of the powerful truths about the body is its ability to speak without the mouth saying anything. It is called body language.
Perhaps we can illustrate it in a way that many of us (especially guys) have experienced. Think back (or currently) to the dating years. Let’s say, guys, that you wanted to ask out a certain girl. Now imagine that you have approached her and she is sitting there looking so nice and so you approach her.
If she turns and runs, you have a problem. If she shies away from you as you begin to talk to her, you may have a problem. If she smiles and greets you warmly, you have no problem.
I experienced this when I was trying to get a date with the one who is now my wife. She got wind that I was trying to talk to her and get a date. For those who know her now, you will probably not believe this, but she was a shy, reserved girl. She was actually afraid of me. She was hiding so that could not ask her out. I finally prevailed after about a week of trying.
I noticed her going into the library. She was now cornered. I rushed in (though I had not been in that building very much) and watched where she landed. I then swooped in and made my move. Since we are now married, you know I won out.
There were two facets to this experience. It was all about me; I had to make the move. It was obvious that she was not going to make the move. If anything was going to happen, it had to start with me. But, it was not all about me because she had to accept the move. I am the lucky one because she did. On the 15th of this month, we will celebrate our 45th anniversary!
Paul wrote that it is all about me as I live my life as a Christian. It is all about me examining myself to know who I am before God. “For if anyone thinks himself to be something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. But let each one examine his own work and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone and not in another. For each one shall bear his own load.” (Galatians 6:3-5).
Paul also wrote that it is not all about me as I live my life as a Christian. We are a part of a body that looks out for each other. “Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:1-2).
The body language of the Lord’s body is very important. What signals do we send out about us as a people? Are we open to others and their problems? Do people feel welcomed around us? Am I taking proper responsibility for myself without blaming anyone else for what I have become?
— Mike Johnson
