In recent years, we have heard the term “wellness” used quite often. It has become a popularized term in a world constantly concerned with self and personal growth. Though sometimes seemingly overused, it describes something that is absolutely necessary in one’s life. Wellness brings to focus a person’s well-being. It asks us to take a good look at our lives to see if we are providing for ourselves that which will give us fullness of life. The Bible itself invites us to wellness and adjures us to consider the state of our bodies, minds, and spirits:

• “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God – this is your true and proper worship.” Romans 12:1
• “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” 3 John 1:2
• “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own, you were bought at a price.  Therefore, honor God with your bodies.” I Corinthians 6:19-20

Likewise, we are called into right relationships with our Lord and with one another:

• “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” Psalms 133:1
• “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20
• “But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.” I John 1:7

Our Metropolis recognized the importance of wellness several years ago and established a Family Wellness Ministry to aid us in our quest for spiritual, physical, and mental well-being. Indeed, the mission statement of the Family Wellness Ministry is,“Connecting individuals, couples, families and clergy through the heart toward healthy Christ-centered relationships.”

In encountering our Lord and each other “Face to Face” and “Heart to Heart”, we are able to move ourselves into the intended life of wellness that God desires for each of us. The Family Wellness Ministry website and Facebook page are replete with information pertinent to our everyday practice of wellness. All of us, young and old, should seek to better our lives, growing in the image and likeness of our God while sharing in fellowship with one another. We should desire His wisdom and practice wellness in order to fully honor the “temple of the Holy Spirit” He has established in each of us.