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Embracing the Call to Build Up the Body of Christ

As we reflect on Ephesians 4:7-13 and John 15:17-25, in the spirit of Feria II after the 23rd Sunday after Pentecost, we are drawn into the mystery of God’s unique gifting to each of us within the Body of Christ and the call to unity even amidst opposition. St. Paul speaks of the diversity of gifts given to believers for building up the Church, while John’s Gospel speaks to the inevitable persecution that accompanies discipleship. These passages challenge us to grow in our understanding of Christian unity and fortitude, guided by the wisdom of the Church Fathers.

In Ephesians 4, St. Paul beautifully describes the Body of Christ as “graced” by God with diverse gifts given “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” The goal is clear: through our diverse roles, we collectively grow into “the unity of the faith and the knowledge of the Son of God” (Eph 4:13). St. Augustine interprets this passage with profound insight, observing that each member of the Body must offer its unique gifts in humble service. In his commentary, he remarks, “By the bond of charity all are unified into one Body of Christ, with Christ himself as the head” (Augustine, On Christian Doctrine). Our gifts are not for self-glorification but for the common good, nurturing and edifying one another as we strive toward maturity in Christ.

This unity, however, is not devoid of suffering. In John 15:17-25, Jesus warns that His disciples will face rejection because they do not belong to the world. He explains, “If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you” (John 15:20). Here, we encounter the paradox of Christian discipleship: while we are called to love and serve the world, we are often rejected by it. St. Cyril of Alexandria addresses this reality, reminding us that Jesus’ followers are distinct because of their bond with Christ. He writes, “The world hates the servants of God because they bear the mark of the Savior who overcame the world” (Cyril of Alexandria, Commentary on John). As we grow in holiness, the world may resist the light within us. Yet, it is precisely in these trials that we participate in Christ’s redemptive work, bearing witness to the truth of His love.

Thus, these readings challenge us to hold two truths together. We are called to build up the Body of Christ, each using our unique gifts, and yet we must be prepared for the opposition that comes from being set apart. St. John Chrysostom encourages us to respond with love and perseverance, saying, “When we are insulted, let us bless; when we are slandered, let us endure” (Chrysostom, Homilies on the Gospel of John). In our response to hostility with love, we testify to the transforming power of God’s grace.

As we meditate on these passages, let us remember our call to grow in unity through our unique gifts while preparing for the trials that come from our commitment to Christ. By holding fast to love and humility, we become instruments of God’s grace, witnessing to the world that the Body of Christ is indeed alive and active, strengthened by the Spirit and sanctified in love.

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