Faith communities have a deep concern for souls but Psalms 139 affirms that we were created with an earthly body (He formed my inward parts) and that we must care for our bodies as well. Genesis 2 also enlightens us on how important our bodies are because God Himself, breathed into us the breath of life.
Our bodies are the foundation of who we are. Body and soul together form a single fabric of who we are in the image of God. Often in faith communities we have drawn a clear but false distinction between body and soul and assigned to the congregations the ministry of the souls and to healthcare, the body. Faith communities must see the enormous value of caring for the soul and the body. A congregation that embraces ministry to the whole person will cultivate not only personal faith but a strong sense of community.
It is the body that allows us to engage in meaningful work and relationships throughout our lives. Knowing and believing that every person is individually created in God’s image is the beginning of realizing how sacred our bodies are. God gave us the freedom and ability to make life choices. Health status and well-being are varied as we individually make life choices.
Work life balance is vital to health fullness. Ones vocation or job can determine the status of health. In our vocation we work to contribute to others a better and healthier world and in our jobs we receive pay to support our family and put food on the table. Work and rest must be honored in our lives if we are to be healthy. If we choose a life that neglects rest we will destroy our spirits as well as our bodies.
Along life’s journey we are born, grow up, grow old, our bodies change, and sometimes become frail. Our lives have beginnings, middles, and ends. Faith communities that offer ministries of health and wellness understand that this often consists of walking through hard times with those who suffer with all sorts of life issues. This may include reducing isolation and promoting belonging. It may mean reaching out to the homeless, suffering, abused, and the high need community. The more the community come to know and trust one another the more beloved and healthier the community becomes.
Identifying the needs of our communities is the first step in building a ministry of health and wholeness. It is a start to help us celebrate our goodness in all of its dimensions to help to raise hope for healing and health through our faith communities.