Body Building 2

Our overarching theme at St Luke’s in 2021 is ‘Body Building’, that is building up the body of Christ - “the Church”.  As we all know, healthy bodies are important.  This is one reason why the church-as-body metaphor is so helpful because it helps us to focus on the things that matter and it strengthens our witness in the world.  
In order for us to live, thrive and survive, we need healthy bodies. When our body isn’t healthy we are limited in what we can do, if one part of the body is not functioning properly it puts additional strain on all other parts, as disease takes over our body breaks down and if left untreated will eventually will die.  

For a body to be healthy it requires proper nutrition, exercise, rest, and purpose.  
Nutrition: A diet of junk food, or high fats and sugars will quickly lead to a deterioration in our physical health.  We become sluggish and risk obesity and heart issues.  Our Spiritual diet is no different what we put into our mind matters.  What are you reading, what are you watching, what are you talking about?  Is it fill-in your mind and heart with the things of God or the things of the world?
Exercise:  The more we are involved the more we want to be involved.  This is true of all exercise physical and faith.  So, get involved! Exercise your faith. Volunteer, pray, participate in events and groups.   The more we exercise, the fitter we become and the more resilience we have to problems that we face.   When we become lazy, when we are not challenged and stretched, we lose the will to want to be involved.  
Purpose:  when life has lost direction and meaning the mind suffers and the body loses energy.  Parts of the body may even start working against itself, going in opposite directions.  As the body of Christ we must remain focussed on the mission and purpose given to us by Christ for His body on earth.  (Matt 22:36-40 & Matt 28:18-20)
Rest: Our bodies need rest; when we are overworked, over-stressed, over tired our body does not function well.  Our mind is clouded and our body breaks down.  Jesus said “Come to me all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest”.  Anything of meaning and substance can only be achieved in the strength of God, and (exercise) trust that He is indeed sovereign and in control.
Healthy bodies grow, they replicate and they work as one.  The health of the church works in parallel with the health of the faith of each of its members.  To ensure a healthy body we must encourage and equip each other to remain strong and healthy in our faith.  

Grace & Peace
Jen.