Fruit Salad Churches

For as we have many members in one body

but all the members do not have the same function,

so we, being many, are one body in Christ, 

and individually members of one another.  

Having then gifts differing according to the grace 

that is given to us, let us use them

  (Romans 12:4-6)

I enjoy fruit salad, and serve it often to my family and guests.  Not only is it flavorful, it’s healthy, and pretty in the bowl, especially when made with a variety of fruits. Peaches; pears; pineapple; strawberries; grapes, both red and green; bananas; maraschino cherries; fresh, canned or frozen, or a combination thereof. The variety is endless, the choice individual.  Each fruit, with its unique flavor and texture, adds a special quality to the mix. 

So it is with Christians. There is much we can do alone, but by combining our diverse personalities, interests, and abilities with other believers, we are more fully equipped to carry out Christ’s assignment to the church: reaching the world with His Good News.

 The writer of the letter to the Hebrews appears to have had this in mind when he wrote:

 Let us consider how to stimulate one another 

to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own 

assembling together as is the habit of some,

 but encouraging one another;and the more 

as you see the day approaching

 (Hebrews 10:24-25 NAS)

Most of us know our likes and dislikes.  The types of food we prefer, and what piques our interest. While some folks branch out, sampling a variety of new things, others, unaware of what they may be missing, shy away from anything unfamiliar.

 In like manner, some church members associate only with others like themselves.  Unwilling or afraid to accept a new challenge, they tend to stay in safe little huddles. Such attitudes may lead to cliches which destroy harmony, and interfere with the church’s ministry.  By refusing to branch out, try new areas of service, and get acquainted with others, they miss full fellowship and may fail to fulfill God’s intended purpose for their lives.
 
Certain canned fruits, such as mango and papaya, are unsuitable for salad.  The process meant to preserve them has rendered them too soft.  So it is with some members of the body. Past experiences have so damaged their self-esteem that they have difficulty mixing with others.  Special care is needed to help them feel accepted, and become a functioning member of the whole.  God’s Word reminds us  to stir up love and good works. (Hebrew 10:24)

When planning to serve fruit salad, I like to make it in advance so the individual flavors can blend together.  Likewise, it is important for brothers-and sisters-in-Christ to spend time together in worship, service, and fellowship,

  Not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together 

[as believers], as is the habit of some people,

 but admonishing (warning, urging, and encouraging)

one another,and all the more faithfully 

as you see the day approaching

 (Hebrews 10:25 Amp Bible)

Like fruit, and all the other elements of God’s creation, no two of us are exactly alike.  We are individuals, uniquely crafted by God to know Him, love Him, and serve Him.  Alike in enough ways to relate, and yet different enough to need each other, working together in harmony and love, in order to carry out His mission for the body of believers, the Church.

Just as fruits are different in color, flavor, and texture; and just as each fruit adds its special qualities to the salad, so are we diverse in personalities, lifestyles, and viewpoints; and so does each of us add our unique contribution to the whole.

                          Lord, You know we all are different because You made us so; 
                          so we can carry out Your plans while living here below.
                          Blend us all together with our strengths and weaknesses,
                          Make us flavorful and sweet and all our efforts bless.