One Body

The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up only one body. So it is with the body of Christ. 
–1 Corinthians 12:12

Volleyball is a team sport. Many college teams carry a roster of 12-14 players and only six players from each team can be on the court at a time. Of those positions only one is the setter. A setter is considered the football equivalent of a quarterback. The setter signals plays and acts as the team leader. The point is this: only 1 of 12 players leads the team from the court. Some argue that the setter is the most important player on the court. But, that distinction cannot be made for a team with only a setter would never win. A setter needs a passer to pass the ball and a hitter to hit the ball for the game to be played.

A coach once told me that there is a difference between a great player and a great team player. He explained that a great player performs to the highest level of skill, but a great team player helps others around them perform to the top of their capability. A crowd watches and responds to those they see on the court or field. However, there are times a crowd never sees the greatest team player perform. Many times, the best team player is the one who shows up to practice everyday, works as hard as they can, makes everyone around them better, and then cheers from the bench on game day.

How can you be a great team player as a Christian?

GOING DEEPER:
1. Why is it easier to envy the gifts someone else has been given, than to utilize and grow the ones you have been given?

2. Take a moment to write down or think about ways that God has gifted you. How can you use those gifts to edify the body of Christ and be a great team player?

FURTHER READING:
Romans 12:1-6; Ephesians 4:15-16; Colossians 2:19-23