A New Year, the same you

Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price. Therefore glorify God with your body. (1 Corinthians 6:19)

It’s that time of the year when we are trying to fulfill our New Year’s resolutions. Most of the festivities of the holidays are over, and even though I still have about 3 dozen Christmas cookies left in the walk-out freezer (the porch), I am trying to eat healthier and lose 10 pounds. I should just throw those little tempters out.

I heard on the radio this morning that the most common New Year’s resolutions have to do with money and health. These things are at the top of the list of things that we want to improve, and yet we really need to work hard at improving them.

According to an article in Seeds for the Parish, “Health is on the tip of the nation’s tongue these days. Health insurance reform, influenza, depression, childhood obesity, the plight of the uninsured … these top a long list of challenging, health-related topics. But there’s a bright spot. Each of us is a steward of gifts given. As a new creation in Christ, we can take steps, today, to change our lifestyle. As individuals, family members, neighbors and congregational leaders, we can work—to the best of our ability —to be healthier in mind, body and spirit.”

What are you doing to respect the temple of the Holy Spirit that is your body, the gift God has given you in which you dwell? You are not simply changing your shape when you chose to live in a healthy way. You are worshiping the one who created you and loves you, even through your struggles and temptations.

Eight reasons to Live Well

1. To be a more effective leader for the sake of the world
2. To role-model healthy behaviors for our children
3. To have a healthier relationship with God
4. To endure hardship with resilience and grace
5. To feel better in mind and body
6. To avoid lifestyle-related illness
7. To better steward gifts given by God
8. To age with strength and dignity

Remember, in baptism you are a new creation in Christ. Every day, and at all times, you can make the sign of the cross on your forehead remembering your baptism and begin anew.