Fitbits

Finally, then, brothers, we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more. For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus. For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God; that no one transgress and wrong his brother in this matter, because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as we told you beforehand and solemnly warned you. For God has not called us for impurity, but in holiness. Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you. (1 Thessalonians 4:1-8 ESV). Recently Mary and I have been gently chastened by our new doctor to get into shape. It seems she has taken that much better than I, which is certainly no surprise to anyone that knows us. We had become somewhat sedentary in our lifestyles over the last few years and it takes its toll as you age. Mary became proactive and decided to start a walking regimen of 10,000 steps per day. In order to both keep up with her progress and continue to be challenged she got a Fit-Bit. She also entered into a little challenge with her sister to do the walking and stay in shape. Well, of course I scoffed. However, as I see her walking up and down the street in the evening to complete her daily steps, I am ashamed to think I certainly haven’t been that disciplined. As I came to our reading today, I was reminded that there is much to be learned from the apostle’s encouragement to “control our body.” A lot has changed in the last two thousand years, but Paul’s instruction about controlling our bodies is just as relevant as ever. Like the first century Thessalonians, we too dwell in a culture that revels in all sorts of unhealthy attitudes and practices when it comes to both our bodies and sexuality. Some Christian traditions have tried to set themselves apart by denigrating bodily matters and emphasizing spiritual health instead. But to cultivate contempt for our bodies is to reject good gifts from God. What’s crucial is that we embrace and use these gifts in ways that will honor God, ourselves, and those with whom we are in relationship. Prior to the advent of Christianity, God’s people needed to be purified and holy in order to approach God’s presence in the Jerusalem temple. Now that God’s presence dwells within believers themselves, our bodies ought to be places where holiness and honor reflect the Spirit’s presence. Holiness isn’t just an occasion, nor is it accomplished by performing certain rituals. It’s a way of life, empowered by the love and example of Christ. And when individuals live honorably with their bodies, the whole community is better equipped to live in health and harmony. Seeking holiness in our bodily conduct is part of how we respond to the gospel, which calls us to live not for self-gratification but for the well-being of all, as God intends.