Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers; then deeds of power, then gifts of healing, forms of assistance, forms of leadership, various kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? But strive for the greater gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way. (1Corinthians 12: 27-31)

We are bound together in mystical union with one another and with Christ. We bring into this profound relationship certain predispositions: strengths and weaknesses. Each of us have a role to contribute.

Each of our gifts are needed and have a place, but Paul is clear that there are greater and lesser gifts. Of first rank is apostolos or delegates of God. Then prophetes or interpreters and poets. Third are didaskolos or teachers and commentators.

Whatever other gifts we may have Paul urges us to strive for, earnestly desire, be zealous for the greater gifts. A sensitivity to the greater gifts will helpfully shape how we engage any other gifts available to us.

Above is a Serbian Orthodox icon of Christ from the Mt. Athos monastery.