Teamwork

As a high school basketball coach I always enjoy the beginning of the new season when I get to assess the talent on the new roster. Some will be natural ball handlers, some shooters, and some defenders. Some have a natural knack to score points, while some naturally know how to prevent the other team from scoring points.

Which is more important—offense or defense? On the offensive side, which is more important—scoring or setting up someone else to score? The answer is all of the above. That is the essence of teamwork.

In the Christian ministry there are different types of gifts. Some are comfortable behind a pulpit while others are comfortable behind the scenes. Which is more important—the man who preaches the sermon or the one who runs his microphone or the camera that broadcasts it? Is not the one who changes diapers in a nursery just as important, because she allows the child’s parents to be able to listen to the message?

The answer, once again, is all of the above. The Christian ministry is about teamwork, with each team member using his gift for the greater good.

And these gifts are nothing we can boast of. Paul told the Corinthian church that “there are diversities of gifts, but one Spirit (I Corinthians 12:4).”

So no matter what your gift is, do it as unto the Lord. If you preach or teach, then do it with all your might, but remember that your gift is no more important than the one who cleans the building. If you take out trash, then throw out each bag with joy, for you are furthering the kingdom of Christ.

And remember, if you are not doing your part the whole team suffers. So let’s break this huddle and get back out there.

“Now there are diversities of gifts, but one Spirit.”

I Corinthians 12:4