Harmony is not conformity
Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work powerful deeds? Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret?
1 Corinthians 12: 29-30
A time ago, our church choir began to improve. It wasn’t that we slipped in a “ringer” from a professional group, but that we began to sound better through regular practice. Our ability to harmonize our unique voices improved.
We must never forget that the community is always made up of individuals. Such individuals are rarely without a certain “prickliness.” They have personalities, foibles, eccentricities, and abrasive edges that cut and irritate those around them. They also have wonderful ideas we would never have thought of and experiences we’ve never had.
One of the great secrets for a happy community of faith (or family, or workplace) is finding a way not to conform, but to harmonize the different voices we are all given by our Creator.
Prayer: Lord? My voice is not the only voice. Help me to hear others today, and work together.
The reverend Dr. Michael Sanders has books of devotions available locally at Kens Village Market in Indian River, Michigan.
This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: Harmony is not conformity
