Spiritual Fitness

The beginning of each new year is often accompanied by resolutions to make significant changes in physical fitness, finances, friendships and even expressions of faith. What resolutions have you made this year? What areas are you hoping to changes? Why did you choose those areas and who will hold you accountable? Discussions of spiritual fitness remind me of the presidential physical fitness competitions that were held at school in the late 70s when I was in the fourth, fifth and sixth grades.  We were required to perform a certain number of sit-ups, pull-ups, and timed runs.  Because humans are social and competitive beings, there was a lot of pressure to out-perform, or at least avoid being surpassed by, peers.  I’m sure I felt stronger and faster after the weeks of preparing for the fitness test.

Preparing for a spiritual fitness test can also invoke a desire to out-perform peers in knowledge of scriptures or Biblical facts. A broad spiritual assessment would also include questions regarding denominational and local church history. How do you think you would feel after preparing and helping others prepare for a spiritual fitness test? What would be some potential benefits of becoming more fit spiritually? How could the children and youth benefit from becoming more fit spiritually?

In the coming weeks, we will learn more about the foundations, or roots, of our faith as Christians and Methodists. Using resources produced by Dr. Ashley Boggan entitled “Radicle Methodism,” we’ll explore the history and distinctive aspects of Methodism. In worship, classes and other venues, we’ll consider what are the characteristics of Methodists; what can we learn about the spiritual journeys of John and Charles Wesley; who are other notable historical and contemporary Methodists, and; what are some things you hope to better understand about your faith?

Over the coming weeks, we hope to grow—stronger, closer and more deeply rooted in our beliefs as Christians. Remember, “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12). We are looking forward to seeing you in worship, in class and engaged in the ministries of the church. The church is at its best when everyone has a place to serve. Who are some people who need to be invited to become more involved in the ministries of the church? Let us know who they are.

In Christ,
Jon McCoy