More than 15 million people have seen the acclaimed traveling exhibit called "Bodies." The show features over 200 actual human bodies, revealing the marvel of the human being. From skin to bones to muscles to lungs, visitors "see how positively amazing the body is— how the pulleys, fulcrums and levers we know as muscles, joints and bones let us function continuously without even thinking about it." The exhibit testifies to our Creator.
The elaborate production prompts the question, "What are these bodies for?" Many say, "They’re made for pleasure!" Scripture suggests otherwise—they are for so much more! And our Creator gives us instructions for how to use these intricate machines through which we dwell, in His commands given to Moses at Mount Sinai.
The Ten Commandments were to be the framework that formed the Hebrew people. Exhortations to serve God alone and honor the Sabbath would form their spirits, and they also prescribed the physical motions for their bodies. Having been enslaved by the Egyptians for four hundred years, the Hebrew people had not had charge of their own bodies and labor. Now they were radically free, and God provided boundaries to guide and protect them.
Knees should bow only to Yahweh. Lips, also, should praise only Him. Hands, busy six days and resting one, aren’t to be used for crafting idols. They’re not to be used for murder or stealing, either. And private parts are dedicated to one’s spouse alone.
The heart-worship of God is never separate from the bodily worship of a living God. The heart turned toward God guides the body into righteousness, and the practices of the body tip the human heart toward God.
Apply the Word
Faith in God was never meant to be just a cerebral exercise. Rather, God invites us to practice faithfulness with our bodies! This week, does the work of your hands bring God glory? Does your mouth speak praise and not false witness? Use your body, heart, and mind to serve Him!