If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? (1 Corinthians 12:17)

Valentine’s Day! It’s a good time to remind lovers, husbands, and wives that “I need you!” is a very important thing to be said. We know that “two shall become as one flesh,” but we tend to take that for granted. Sweet candies and gifts are fine, but sweet words are better.

These same words and concepts would be very much in order in our churches today. In the city of Corinth, the Christians had a bit of a problem with pride and competitiveness. Some folks saw their own personal gifts as very special while they looked down upon or criticized the gifts of others. Somehow they missed the concept that the gifts were given to compliment each other—that no gift standing alone has as much value as when it is blended with the other gifts in the group. To say, “I need you!” is a simple truth of God. We were all created to need each other to bring about a “whole.”

I may be able to stand in front of a group and speak without experiencing the number one fear of American people, public speaking, but if I suggest to you that I am superior to you because of the gift God has given to me, I am acting like the eye that says the ear is inferior. We all have gifts and parts to play on the stage of life. And each one is very important.

Most Holy Creator, may I honor and uplift the gifts of others that my own gifts might blend with theirs. May we come together to create a “whole.”