Thursday of the 1st week of Lent

Presence

My soul thirsts for you God, the God of my life. (Psalm 63). May your Word quench the thirst of my soul today and always, Lord. 

Scripture Reading

Sirach 30:14-15 NRSVue

Better off poor, healthy, and fit than rich and afflicted in body. Health and fitness are better than any gold and a robust body than countless riches.

Reflection

Do I work long hours to make more money than I need? Am I married to my job, consumed by ambition and the pursuit of material things?  Am I neglecting my health because I’m too busy making money? Do I buy convenient, unhealthy food because I don’t have time to cook properly? Or because I see it as being cheaper or more cost-effective? Am I too busy to eat properly? Am I making the right choices about my health? Today, I will look at what I eat and how much exercise I get. I will walk instead of taking the bus (or walk to the next bus stop before getting on). If I drive, I’ll park farther from where I need to go and walk the rest of the way. I’ll take the stairs instead of the lift, even if only one flight. And with each step, I will give thanks to the Lord for my health, knowing that “health and fitness are better than gold.”

Closing Prayer

Dear Lord, I thank you for the health that I have, even if it is not perfect. I thank you for the gift of life in my body.  Help me to love and respect my body, to treat it well, for it is the temple of your Holy Spirit. (1 Cor 6:19).  Amen.