Memorial of St. Cecilia, Virgin and Martyr
Reflection by Fr. Collins Akhigbe, OP
Scriptural passages
1st reading Rev. 10:8-11. Psalm 119. Gospel Lk. 19:45-48.
Theme: Do Not Abuse God’s Temple
“Then Jesus entered the temple area and proceeded to drive out those who were selling things, saying to them, “It is written, My house shall be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves” (Lk. 19:45-46). In today’s gospel reading, the Lord drove out those who were abusing the temple of God. This abuse is still very much with us today both in the physical Church and the spiritual church which is our bodies. In the name of harvest and raising funds, many Pastors and Ministers of God have turned the house of God into a marketplace. This is very unfortunate. Our bodies are the temple of God. One way or the other, we have also abused our bodies which are consecrated to God at Baptism. We celebrate today the life of St. Cecilia, a virgin and Martyr. She kept her body in holiness for the service of God. She has given us a wonderful example to follow. We should sincerely examine our conscience to see if we are guilty of abusing the temple of God. We should keep our bodies pure and undefiled for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. In the first reading, John was given a scroll to eat after which he was given a mission to prophesy to all peoples. This is one of the reasons why we should not abuse our bodies the temple of God. In this reflection, we shall highlight why we should not abuse God’s temple and how to use the temple of God.
Why We Should Not Abuse God’s Temple
First, in Christian theology, the concept of viewing the human body as a temple of God is derived from various biblical passages that highlight the sacredness, value, and significance of the human body as a dwelling place of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 3:16). The notion of not abusing God’s temple, which is our bodies, is rooted in the belief that we are called to honour, respect, and care for our physical selves as instruments of God’s presence and purpose. The scripture teaches that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, where the Spirit of God resides (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Thus, mistreating or defiling our bodies through harmful actions contradicts our role as bearers of divine presence.
Second, created in God’s Image (Gen. 1:27). As beings created in the image of God, our bodies reflect the sacredness and dignity bestowed upon us by our Creator. Abusing or neglecting our physical selves diminishes the reflection of God’s image within us.
Third, physical and spiritual unity. The holistic nature of human beings underscores the interconnectedness of the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of our being. What we do with our bodies can impact our overall well-being and spiritual vitality. This is why it is imperative on us not to abuse our bodies, the temple of God.
Fourth, purposeful design. God’s intentional design of our bodies for health, vitality, and service underscores the value and purpose inherent in our physical form. Abusing our bodies through harmful practices undermines God’s design and hinders our ability to fulfill our calling. We should do everything possible to keep our bodies for the glory of God.
How to Use God’s temple (our bodies)
First, healthy Lifestyle Choices. Making sound decisions regarding diet, exercise, rest, and self-care promotes physical health, well-being, and vitality. Honoring our bodies through healthy habits reflects gratitude for the gift of life. This involves living a balanced life. We are a composite being. We are made up of body, soul and spirit. We should have time for prayer, for good nourishment, for exercises, for studies and meditation and for rest among others.
Second, avoiding harmful behaviors. We should abstain from activities that harm the body, such as substance abuse, excessive consumption, self-destructive behaviors, and neglectful practices, demonstrates respect for God’s temple within us. We should not only avoid harmful behaviors but practice good and healthy behaviour.
Third, fostering emotional and mental health. Prioritizing emotional and mental well-being through self-care, seeking support, managing stress, and cultivating positive relationships contribute to holistic health and flourishing.
Fourth, service and sacrifice. Using our bodies to serve others, show compassion, seek justice, and advance God’s kingdom reflect a spirit of sacrificial love and service in line with Christ’s example of selfless giving. The Lord gave up his life for us on the cross of Calvary to set us free from slavery to sin. We too shall glory God by using our bodies for the welfare of others. This is the way of sacrifice and service.
Fifth, gratitude and worship. Expressing gratitude for the gift of our physical bodies and offering them as instruments of worship, praise, and service to God align our actions with reverence, gratitude, and devotion. We should be men and women of gratitude because God has been so good to us.
Sixth, let us use our bodies, talents and time to promote the kingdom of God here on earth. Let us proclaim the gospel of Christ in season and out of season (2 Tim. 4:2-4). This task is very critical and indispensable as believers. This is the primary duty of the Church. We should promote the kingdom of Christ both with our lives and our words. These are some of the ways we can use our bodies for the glory of God.
Prayers
Lord, help us to love you above all things. Lord, give us the grace of understanding and wisdom. Lord, help us to live a life of holiness and integrity. Lord, deliver us from temptation and sin. Lord, please, sustain us till the very end. Amen. Wishing you a fruitful day.
With lots of prayers and love.
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