Weight, Health and the Elder

It started when watching the reality TV series called “Village on a Diet” (CBC- Canada).  I had a fleeting thought about “church on a diet.”  That’s when I heard that Rick Warren is now beginning a program of personal growth for the church that includes a health component. He himself plans to lose 90 pounds. I know it is the time of the year, but perhaps there is more.

The challenge to live a healthy life certainly has some cultural backing.  Besides CBC, CTV began the year with a series of programs.  Beyond television many communities are seeking to promote health through  “community gardens.” There are movements like the hundred mile diet.  And cooking shows have great popularity.  Meanwhile in places we send missionary agriculturalists to help communities create healthy and secure food supply for themselves and their children.  

Health, food and community are mixed together.  Sometimes with missional purpose. 

Which made me think about elders training.  I don’t remember ever spending time in an elders meeting on the weight or health as part of our spiritual journey.  We talk about it during the meeting break.  We share what we have learned from others.  Some attend weight loss programs with a spiritual component. Many have exercise equipment – seldom used.  Many enjoy conversations about food. But at elder’s meeting, this part of our life is seldom named and discussed as part of spiritual journey. 

Maybe this should change.