Spiritual and Physical Health

In today’s psalm, the speaker says, “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the Pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy.”

It seems appropriate that today, amidst so much uncertainty and anxiety with what our community is facing, that we have these words and specific mention of “disease.” Obviously, our community currently reels from a virus besetting our country, city, and close communities. However, there’s a dichotomy in this reading; the speaker lists the tribulations that we might fact, but encourages the reader to remember that God is the counterbalancing force with our struggles. While it might be easy to focus on how our current crisis could affect our daily leaves, we have the reassurance that God’s healing power will win out at some point in the end.

It’s a strange crossroads this particular Lenten season where we are dealing with such a focus on our physical health and the pressing threat to it. It’s easy to panic and worry and and only focus on our worldly well-being. However, in the midst of all of this uncertainty, it is important to remember what Psalms teaches us today- alongside any physical “disease” is sin, shame, and despair that comes with such trying times. As I focus and try to preserve my physical health over the next few weeks, I am trying to be cognizant of my spiritual health as well. Because luckily, in addition to healing us physically, God is also there with “love and mercy” for our souls.

I am routinely reminded about how God has just the right message for us sometimes when we need it, especially on days or weeks that seem particularly extraordinary. I hope I can continue to return to Scripture as the Lenten season progresses and we continue to ask God for strength and love amidst such pain and confusion around us.

Author: Chris Patterson, English Department