For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. (Romans 12:4-5)

Diversity is a fact of life. Natural and human differences make life both exciting and beautiful. Imagine a life that is not diverse—what if we eat rice only, what if all trees in the forest are narra, what if all humans look alike?

At the same time, our differences can pose problems. Some people look down on others who are not like them. In the church and work place, this could create friction as people treat others with lack of respect.

We must remember that unity is a twin of diversity. In nature, a forest ecosystem may be diverse yet it functions as one. Our body is made up of different parts (eg heart, lungs, hands) but these unite in one body.

In the church, we want to foster both diversity and unity. Indeed our strength lies in both. Just as the hand cannot say it does not need the brain (and vice-versa!), so we cannot belittle our brethren whose gifts differ from ours. Like a basketball team, we need various kinds of players (center, guards, forwards).