Cleansing the Temple

"Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God." - 2 Corinthians 7:1 
  
In his book "The Body Keeps The Score," Bessel van der Kolk profoundly states, "Traumatic experiences leave an imprint on the mind, brain, and body, and have ongoing consequences for how the human being manages to survive in the present." This idea that our bodies retain the memories of trauma and past pain resonates deeply with many of us who have experienced such hardships.

Transitioning from this understanding to Paul's words to the church at Corinth, we encounter a powerful admonition to cleanse ourselves from every defilement of the body and spirit. This call to purification is not merely about external cleanliness but encompasses holistic healing of body, mind, and spirit.
 
The term "defilement" carries significant weight, representing the scars and wounds left by traumatic experiences. These wounds, whether physical or emotional, can distort our perception of ourselves and hinder our ability to live fully in the present. Trauma leaves its mark on every aspect of our being, influencing how we navigate relationships, handle stress, and perceive the world around us.

Paul's call to cleanse ourselves is a call to confront the lingering effects of trauma and reclaim our sense of wholeness and well-being. It is an invitation to release the burdens we carry, whether they be shame, fear, or pain, and allow God's healing touch to penetrate every fiber of our being.
 
The process of purification is not easy; it requires courage, vulnerability, and a willingness to confront our past traumas. Yet, as we embark on this journey of healing, we do so with the assurance of God's presence and promise. We purify ourselves out of reverence for God, recognizing that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and deserving of care and restoration.

I want you to know that you can find freedom from the shackles of past trauma and step into the fullness of life that God has intended for us. Let us walk this path of purification with faith, knowing that God's grace is more than sufficient to heal and restore us from the inside out.