Eastertide is the time of resurrection. The image of death and restoration to life represents our Christian understanding of our spiritual life, as well as the earthly life of Christ. Part of the power of the image, however, is the link to the material. Our souls are not separate from our bodies, as much as we might try to make the distinction. Our spiritual life is linked with our physicality. In Romans 6:5-8, Paul writes:
For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. We know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be destroyed, and we might no longer be enslaved to sin. For whoever has died is freed from sin. But if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him.
Paul’s use of the body of sin here reminds us that those things that weigh down our spirits also weigh down our bodies. Bringing the body into confessional prayers can unburden the whole person. The following prayer practice is adapted from 50 Ways to Pray by Teresa Blythe.
Enter into a time of confession before God.
Make fists. Imagine holding everything that separates you from God, everything you want to confess, in your clenched hands.
Open your hands. Visualize releasing all those things to God.
Cup your hands. Feel God’s grace, forgiveness, and blessings pour into your hands.
Place your palms together in front of your heart in “prayer hands.” Thank God for God’s love and grace.
Raise your hands to shoulder level. Offer your praise to God.
Lord, make me who you want me to be.