Romans 8:11
For if you live according to the flesh, you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.
Watching the latest Ken Burns documentary last night, we learned that much of what Leonardo di Vinci learned was from watching nature and experiencing life. From the movements of birds to the waves of the seas, he sketched and saw patterns and movements in the world that informed his curious mind. I feel the same. Learning could be said for how all of us learn by aging. As we get older, no matter what shape we are in there, is an element of wear and tear that we can carry in our bodies. The spring from getting up off the floor might not be as quick as a 5 year old. The ability to pull and “all nighter” like a college student can’t be done without some consequences that have a week’s long effect.
In Paul’s letter to the Romans today, he is reminding us of the temporary things of life versus those that are forever and lasting. Our bodies, although resilient and seemingly endless when we are younger, remind us as we age more and more that they are only a temporary shell for holding our spirits. The spirit however is forever, lasting and eternal—something that will not end. Paul reminds us not to place our energy in things that are earthly and temporary or else we will inevitably be disappointed as they will come to an end. We are called to lean into God because God will never end, never cease, and is always full of life.
Prayer
God of grace and glory, we thank you for being an eternal presence in our lives. Through the power of the Spirit, we are reminded of your constant love. Please help us turn our hope not towards things of this world but of yours. In your Son’s name we pray, Amen.