Wholeness of Body, Mind, and Spirit
Terry Flowers of Independence, MO, USA
You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. -Matthew 5:14-16
As I think about what wholeness means I can’t help but reflect upon the life and ministry of Jesus. When we read the gospels we learn that Jesus healed the blind, the lame, the leper. Yes, they were physically made whole, but was that all? Were they also healed emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually?
When I was practicing as a pharmacist before retirement, I saw many patients come and go who became physically well. There were other patients that received not only a physical healing but also emotional and psychological healing. What was the difference? In the cases in which patients were made whole in body, mind, and spirit, there was more to their care than the medical treatment. There was also the support of family and friends. In addition to support of family and friends, the medical providers were also caring and supportive beyond giving physical care.
It seems that to be made whole, really whole, we need to be cared for beyond the physical. We need emotional and psychological and spiritual support as well. I am no longer in practice in the pharmacy profession, but I hope I can always be ready and able to provide the support of love to all I meet. I believe it is through love that we find wholeness for others and ourselves. I also believe it was through love that Jesus brought wholeness to those in need.
Prayer Phrase
I belong with all that lives.
Spiritual Practice
Deep Belonging
Take a deep breath and pay attention to the web of relationships that sustain your life right now. Remember the people who have formed you. Consider the nourishing food and drink that come to you from the planet. Notice all the lives that touched everything that surrounds you. Offer a prayer of gratitude for connection and belonging with God and all creation.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
