So it is with Christ’s body.  We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other. Romans 12:5

Borders between countries can be unnerving places.  Each time I cross one, I’m secretly holding my breath that all my documents will be in order and that nothing in my bags will be a problem.

Borders are geographical and political; people are truly held together by language and culture that has grown on a land, irrespective of borders.

This is true of what the Bible calls, the “Body of Christ” (1 Corinthians 12:27).  Jesus was here on earth physically, but when he returned to heaven, his followers were to be his physical presence—telling others about his love and in carrying out practical acts of love.  People in the Body of Christ all are to speak the language of love and true “Jesus Culture” is shared by people who don’t live for themselves, but for others.

Yes, Scripture says that “From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands” (Acts 17:26).  But for the follower of Jesus, this world is not our home—we are passing through.  “Our citizenship is in heaven,” the Bible makes clear (Philippians 3:20).

Jesus follower, no matter where you live on this earth, you and I are citizens of one Kingdom, we have one Lord, and we are one Body. Our connection to one another is eternal, transcending borders, governments, and political systems.  When one part of the Body suffers, all suffer.  As we watch for Jesus’ return, may we love and stand with each other, like never before (John 13:34-35).

 

Resource reading: John 13:34-35