Embracing the Body in Prayer
As Christians, we often struggle to understand the role of the body in our spiritual lives. We may view our bodies as mere vessels for our souls or as obstacles to our spiritual growth. However, C.S. Lewis reminds us that our bodies are an integral part of our humanity, and that they play a vital role in our relationship with God.
The Importance of Embodiment
Lewis argues that our bodies are not just physical entities, but also spiritual ones. He writes, “God never meant man to be a purely spiritual creature… He likes matter. He invented it.” Our bodies are not just temporary shells, but rather an essential part of who we are as human beings. This is why Lewis emphasizes the importance of embracing our bodies, rather than rejecting or worshiping them.
The Body as a Buffoon
Lewis humorously describes the body as a “buffoon,” which keeps our grandiose visions of ourselves in check. Our bodies are clumsy, stubborn, and prone to mistakes, but this is precisely what makes them so lovable and relatable. By embracing our bodily limitations, we can cultivate a sense of humility and dependence on God.
Praying with the Body
So, how do we incorporate our bodies into our prayer lives? Lewis suggests that we should pray with our bodies, as well as our souls. This means taking physical postures such as kneeling, standing, or bowing our heads, which can help us focus our minds and hearts on God. We should also avoid praying when we are extremely sleepy or distracted, as this can hinder our ability to concentrate.
Finding Balance
While bodily posture is important, Lewis reminds us that it is not the only thing that matters. A concentrated mind and a sincere devotion are far more important than any physical position. As he writes, “Kneeling does matter, but other things matter even more. A concentrated mind and a sitting body make for better prayer than a kneeling body and a mind half asleep.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, our bodies are an essential part of our humanity, and they play a vital role in our relationship with God. By embracing our bodily limitations and incorporating our bodies into our prayer lives, we can cultivate a deeper sense of humility, dependence, and devotion to God. May we learn to love and appreciate our bodies, not just as physical entities, but as spiritual ones, too.
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