Monday of the First Week of Advent
I believe that you can find God and his truths even in the most mundane experiences of our daily lives.
As part of my regular exercise routine, I participate in a TRX (strength training class) at the rec center. A big part of our workouts include strengthening our core- the muscles that support the back and abdomen. Having a healthy and strong core allows people to accomplish the daily tasks with improved balance and less risk for injury and pain.
While I was working out, I was reminded that similar to our physical bodies our spiritual lives also have a “core.” A strong faith centered on Jesus is central or “core” to our lives as Christians. When we believe in Him and His presence in our lives, this provides us with the necessary strength to tackle the daily challenges, as well as gives us truths which we can balance all the decisions that we will face.
In today’s gospel reading, the centurion demonstrates his great faith in Jesus. He comes to Jesus asking for the healing of his ailing servant, but he believes so strongly in the power of Jesus that he states that “only say the word and my servant will be healed.” (Mt 8:8) The centurion does not believe that Jesus needs to be there in person, or even touch his servant- only his words are necessary! Jesus recognizes and praises the centurion for his deep faith, and then goes on to explain that those people with this deep faith in Him will join Him “at the banquet in the Kingdom of Heaven.” (Mt. 8:11)
Having a strong faith in Jesus is something that requires on our part a discipline and effort. Similar to doing planks, sit-ups, and crunches to strengthen our physical core, we must exercise our spiritual selves with prayer, scripture and sacrament. Sometimes these exercises in trusting the Lord can be challenging when we are faced with turbulent and/or sorrowful circumstances. (Just like sometimes there is pain and soreness after working out our muscles!) When we do our exercises to strengthen our physical core, we begin with short small workouts and increase as we are able. In the same way, the more we trust in the daily little events of our lives, the more we will have the ability to trust Jesus and believe in His love and mercy when faced with larger and more challenging situations.
One other aspect that is comparable between my workouts and my spiritual life is the need for community in achieving my goals. When I am with others working out, I am encouraged to keep trying and to do my best to attain my better health. This is the same as we walk on our spiritual journey. We need one another to help us strengthen our faith through encouragement and prayer. It is in the community of believers that we are best able to find the necessary perseverance to continue trusting and acting on His truths. Through the loving support of one another, the “Body of Christ” will have a strong core as we place Jesus at the center and place our trust in Him. It is Jesus and His grace that gives our core its strength, but we must help one another to remain centered on Him to give our lives balance and purpose.
In my future workouts, as I hold my planks and do my sit ups, I will be reminded or how Jesus is my spiritual “core” and I will pray that all people may find hope, mercy and love through a strong faith in Him.
"Heavenly Father, you give us Your Son, Jesus to bring us Your love and mercy. Through the grace of Your Spirit, strengthen our faith in Jesus, so we can find the courage, balance and power to live as His disciples. May we live our lives trusting in Him and thereby giving you glory. We pray this through Christ, our LORD. AMEN"
- Marylynn Herchline