"The same with us; being many, we are one body in CHRIST, depending on one another. Let each one of us, therefore, serve, according to our different gifts. Are you a prophet? Then give the insights of faith. Let the minister fulfill his office; let the teacher teach, the one who encourages, convince.
You must, likewise, give, with an open hand, preside with dedication, and be cheerful in your works of charity.
Let love be sincere. Hate what is evil and hold to whatever is good. Love one another and be considerate. Out do one another, in mutual respect. Be zealous in fulfilling your duties. Be fervent in the spirit, and serve GOD.
Have hope and be cheerful. Be patient in trials and pray constantly. Share with other Christians in need. With those passing by, be ready to receive them.
Bless those who persecute you; bless, and do not wish evil on anyone. Rejoice with those who are joyful, and weep with those who weep. Live in peace with one another. Do not dream of extraordinary things; be humble and do not hold yourselves as wise." - Romans 12:5-16
(From the way he speaks about Christian community, Paul lets us know that in his time it was not organized as in our churches today. In the early Church not everything depended upon priests educated apart from the common people and sent to the Christian communities from outside. As we said in Acts 14:23, the community elected a council of elders or presbyters, approved by the apostles. The most respected among them were the "prophets." The body of presbyters, who had authority over the Church, were those who celebrated the Eucharist.
Everybody's gifts were taken into account by the organization, which considered also as gift the ability to serve in the Church.
Throughout history the Church has had to change its organization and constantly adjust itself to new social structures and cultural development.
Give with an open hand. Paul passes from the good discharge of ministries to the ministry of love for others.)
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