As with our physical ailments, where ignoring symptoms or refusing to address small issues can lead to catastrophic illness or permanent pain, our souls can become scarred when we avoid the necessary work of the spiritual journey.
Just as regular movement and healthy habits influence our physical well-being, spiritual disciplines can assist our souls in the same way. While a healthy lifestyle doesn’t mean we will never be sick, having practices that nurture our general well-being help us both recover from setbacks and embrace the realities and limits of our human form.
Of course, with soul work it is often easy to ignore the strains and cracks. We distract ourselves with busy schedules, worthy work even. We divert our thoughts with the onslaught of streaming content (shows, books, podcasts, music, etc) preventing our minds from examining those places of pain.
But sooner or later the fissures expand into craters. It may be from the accumulated weight of multiple griefs; it may come from unchosen transitions or unavoidable questions about our identity. It may be the cost of serving in toxic systems or the impact of misguided theology.
The Old Testament story of Jacob wrestling with God (Genesis 32:22-30), reminded me of the admonition to stay present with discomfort. There is a place for persistence. And there are times where the cost of blessing is a limp.
While approaching faith with wonder and curiosity feels preferable. And embracing mystery and making peace with the limits of our unknowing seems ideal. These postures must be held in tension with the truth that our places of pain cannot be ignored indefinitely. The pinch points and griefs of our lives have much to teach us.
Consider for yourself…
When have you “wrestled” with God?
When have you fought for a blessing?
What “limp” do you live with from your efforts at faithfulness? ·
Perhaps you are considering adding spiritual direction to your faith practices. Or these questions have stirred something in you for further discussion. All of us need safe spaces and accountability as we work to stay present with and process our discomforts. If you are longing for such a resource, I have a few spaces this fall for new clients, and you can sign up here for a soul care conversation.
A Blessing for August
When you get up, go across, or are sent…
When you feel alone, lost, or wondering…
When you are wrestling, fighting, just barely holding on…
May you remember:
Day is breaking
Blessing is coming
God is speaking your name