The first six months of 2010 have been as they say a “learning experience” and the above scripture keeps coming to mind. I think this passage keeps floating in and out of my consciousness because of how much I have taken my body for granted.

Before the New Year began, my knee went out and when every step is excruciatingly painful, one begins to realize how awesome it is to be able to walk. In January, I had surgery for a “joint mouse” which I have no idea why they call it that but I am so grateful to be able to walk again without that pain!!

Since I couldn’t walk for a while, I had time to reflect on how wondrous our bodies really are and how often we take the simple things in life for granted. For too long I have been dissatisfied my body and cursed it more than given thanks for all that it does effortlessly. But now, I start everyday not with a list of complaints about my aches and pains or with a litany of its imperfections but with a prayer of gratitude for all of the parts that work, move and allow me to see, taste, smell, feel and enjoy God’s creation.

Even if it is not the body you once had or the one you want, I hope that each of you will spend some time giving thanks to God for the marvelous gift of your body and senses. And don’t forget to take care of this gift and glorify God in your body this summer and always!!

Rev. Sharon Ladd