Hello everyone,

It's wonderful to connect with you today and share insights from my recent message at Amberlea. I'm Harry Bradley—or just Harry, as I often like to be called. I recently returned to speak at Amberlea, a place that feels like home to me, surrounded by many familiar faces and some wonderful new ones. Thanks to Maxene for the kind introduction.

The Art of Introduction

Allow me to start with a personal anecdote about introductions. When I first moved to Scarborough from Hamilton, where I had spent nearly 12 years, the congregation at Knox Church faced a little dilemma in introducing me to the community. The church signage didn't have enough letters to spell out my full title. Instead of opting for a formal title, I jested about simply putting "nice guy" on the board—we could all use more nice guys in the world! But, as always, tradition persisted, and I became the "moderator."

The Body of Christ: Together in Diversity

Today, I want to dive into a topic that has been close to my heart, reflecting on Paul's first letter to the Corinthian Church. In this letter, Paul uses the powerful metaphor of the church as the body of Christ—a body composed of many diverse yet equally essential parts. This metaphor is more than a mere analogy; it is a model for how we, as Christians, are called to interact and function together.

Gifts of the Spirit: Defined and Embraced

Paul speaks extensively about the "gifts of the spirit"—unique talents granted to each of us by the Holy Spirit for the common good. These gifts include wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miraculous powers, prophecy, discernment, speaking in tongues, and interpretation. Just as these gifts are varied, so are the roles within a body. We may be as different as the organs and limbs of our physical body, yet each plays a crucial part in the body's overall well-being.

option: open in a new tab

Unity Is Not Uniformity

A key takeaway from Paul’s message is that unity within the church doesn't stem from uniformity. Too often, Christian groups insist on homogeneity, believing that true unity requires everyone to agree on every detail. However, true unity, as Paul suggests, is found in our diversity—the blending of gifts, traditions, and personal strengths that make the body of Christ strong and vibrant.

Every Part Matters

Paul challenges us not to undermine any part of the body, regardless of how small or seemingly inconsequential it may appear. Each element has its place and purpose. Whether it's the visible roles like preaching and singing or the quieter acts of service, like the person who calls a fellow congregant during the week, every contribution is vital.

Cooperation Over Competition

The church thrives when we learn to cooperate rather than compete. As Professor Harvey Cox noted, even among Christians, discussions can often highlight differences rather than common ground. It's crucial that we find unity by working together to present a unified message of Christ's love to the world.

Reflecting on Our Blessings

In my journeys and after retiring from pastoral ministry, I’ve had the privilege of visiting diverse congregations, each with its style and customs. From formal and reflective services to those bursting with lively music, I've learned that God's work is manifest in many beautiful ways.

Conclusion: Sharing God’s Love

So, what's a body to do? Embrace our divine gifts and work harmoniously as parts of a whole. Let us go out, exercise our God-given talents, and unite as one body in Christ. The world will see our Christian witness, not as a fractured and divided entity, but as a harmonious family bound by love and purpose. Together, working through our many different ministries, we become a beacon of God’s love in a world too often filled with division.

I encourage each of you to carry these reflections into your hearts, cherishing the diversity and unity that form the body of Christ.

To God in Christ be the glory.

Amen.