Embodied spirituality

John 12 : 1 - 11

Mary.......anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair

Spirituality is so much richer when it is 'embodied'...when we allow symbols and religious practices to point us and take us into deeper truths about God and about ourselves in relation to him. I took part in a Palm Sunday celebration with a Catholic group yesterday. We held up palm branches as we made a procession into the chapel, led by the priest. It made the start of Holy Week come to life, as the event was recalled not only in words but also in song and action.

I think at this stage in my journey I have a need and hunger for a more embodied spirituality. The Baptist tradition I have been brought up with all these years has served its purpose - giving me a strong foundation in the Word, giving a regard for careful exposition of Scripture. But there is more to knowing God than 'getting it right'. After all, those who strive to grasp the 'truth' often end up very critical of those who do not agree with them. There is so much division among different denominations, very often due to doctrinal issues. Well, focusing only on 'words' even if it is Scripture, does not naturally lead to a very holistic spirituality.

Mary in this episode shows a very unique and intimate form of 'worship' of her Lord. She was not only extravagant, using a costly ointment of pure nard, but also very expressive in her demonstration of love for her Lord. Indeed, if people in conservative churches find it uncomfortable to sing 'love songs' of worship to our Lord, then they certainly would have been most appalled by Mary's rather 'inappropriate' behavior. Loosening of a woman's hair in public was at that time often seen as an act of immodesty. But Mary was oblivious to all around her. Her only desire was to please her Lord. The anointing was an expression of her love by way of physical symbol. This act of worshipful love meant much to Jesus, as he approached his 'hour'.

I have not visited any charismatic church for some time. But from what I remember, apart from the loud praise music, the tone often quietens down leading into songs of intimate worship. I have also watched as the worship dance team expresses worship through physical movement. These practices would be frowned upon by the tradition I come from. But sometimes, it is not what we do but what we do not do that may cause us to lose out on a richer faith.

I know that I am now drawn to more expressive ways of worship, of prayer, of connecting with God. I find certain types of music like meditative songs helpful. Visual images that lead into a gospel story are most welcome too. Everyday things like bread or water or the weather can become symbols of the inner life. The symbols of course are not 'sacred' in themselves - neither are the (too) many words we use (and argue with). The crucial thing is to use what helps us toward the goal...the goal of knowing Christ, of deepening communion with him in a life transforming way. Like Mary, if our focus is on the Lord alone, we will be led to worshipful and intimate ways to embody and deepen our faith. Something to begin thinking about this Holy Week.