Our scripture this morning is 1 Corinthians 3:7-9.
So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth. Now he who plants and he who waters are one; but each will receive his own reward according to his own labor. For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building.
Paul uses another agricultural example to explain our role in the kingdom work we are called to accomplish. Planting and caring for a crop is important but there is nothing we can do to make them grow; only God gives the growth. It reminds us that while we are sent to share God’s love, planting and watering as it were, spiritual growth is between each person and God.
Paul hints at his later example of us all being part of the body of Christ, saying “he who plants and he who waters are one.” We are “fellow workers, God’s field, God’s building.” It also points to the fact that we may not get to see the growth for which we are working, as in Moses not entering the Promised Land or Paul himself not seeing the establishment of the church.
The important part is that we all continue to use our gifts for God’s work, no matter what assignment we receive. We are not to be jealous of others’ gifts or work, for “each will receive his own reward according to his own labor.” What we or others think of our work doesn’t matter, as long as we do what God intends for us.
Loving Lord, You have called us to be part of what You are doing in creation. Help us to see our role and use the gifts You have given wisely for the good of all Your children. Amen.
