{vision} I saw different American Olympic athletes posing as if for a photoshoot meant to display their new team uniforms. What stood out to me was that, although the athletes had different types of uniforms based on their sport, all of the uniforms used the same set of colors. (Royal blue was the predominant color.) The consistency of the color is what would make it clear to others that they were all on the same team.
As I pressed in for the download for this vision, I was led to look up the definition of the word uniform. As a noun, the Concise Oxford English Dictionary defines uniform as “the distinctive clothing worn by members of the same organization or body or by children attending certain schools.” Looking at the etymology of the word, uniform is derived from the latin uniformis, uni- meaning “one; having or consisting of one” and form meaning “body, shape, or configuration.” Immediately, I thought of the fact that humans are made in the image or “form” of God.
Deuteronomy 6:4 highlights an important aspect of God’s nature; it tells us that “The LORD is our God, the LORD is one.” In this verse, the word for one in Hebrew is echad. Echad has a variety of nuances, including uniqueness, singularity, and compound unity. Certainly, the Body of Christ is meant to express echad with many members acting together as one. Though each of us has a unique purpose and function in the Body, we all work towards a common goal—that upward call of God in Christ (Philippians 3:14).
Our unity is akin to the unity among Olympic athletes; though they each may compete in different sports, an individual’s actions will ultimately reflect upon their entire team as well as their nation. Olympic athletes represent a nation’s best as far as prowess in their sport. They train hard and are proud to compete on behalf of their country. I also imagine they must also be proud to wear their uniforms, the very symbol of their role as an Olympic athlete.
It is much the same for those of us who follow the call of Christ. For by the Spirit, we train hard to crucify our flesh and become mighty athletes of the Spirit. We are proud to walk to earth and represent the Kingdom of Heaven. Most of all, we display our unity by putting on Christ. When clothed with love, anyone who encounters us knows which team we are proudly playing for.
Galatians 3:27 (NLT) And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes.
Galatians 5:22-23 (TPT) But the fruit produced by the Holy Spirit within you is divine love in all its varied expressions: joy that overflows, peace that subdues, patience that endures, kindness in action, a life full of virtue, faith that prevails, gentleness of heart, and strength of spirit. Never set the law above these qualities, for they are meant to be limitless.
John 13:35 (NKJV) By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.
[ “In the Form of Christ” originally posted on Waiting in the Wings, reposted in its entirety with permission.]