How Jesus’ Death and Resurrection Relates to Your Body Image

The story of Jesus’ death and resurrection isn’t just a story, in a book. It happened. At least 4 people named Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John documented the event. If that hasn’t convinced you, consider all the people who put their lives on the line in His name. 

But why did they do that? Why did they put their lives on the line to live a different kind of life and share about Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross? Here’s why: because you hate your body. 

Let me explain. 

We all make mistakes, say mean things, make dumb choices, and head down dark paths. Anyone out there who hasn’t? I didn’t think so. 

The truth is that if you hate your body and control food or exercise to a point where it takes over your thoughts and how you spend your time, then, don’t take this the wrong way, but...dark path alert! If you don’t believe me, then consider this question: 

Is it a good idea to compare your body to others and beat yourself up for something you ate? Is it serving you well? 

Didn’t think so. 

So Jesus. He had to come down here to say, “You are forgiven.” You don’t have to live in bondage, friend. He came down so that you can give it to Him. His job description includes carrying our burdens, taking what we can’t do ourselves and giving us abundant life in return.

Jesus was documented as saying (and I’m paraphrasing here), “I’m going to die on that cross for all of those mistakes you have done and will do, so that you can start each day with a clean slate.” 

Good news, is an understatement! This means that you don’t need to use exercise to as punishment for eating a food that brought you pleasure. No sacrifice is necessary. No “pay up” because you screwed up. That’s how the world works and Jesus broke that cycle on the cross. He sacrificed himself so that we don’t owe anyone anything. 

And, he didn’t just die. After three days He resurrected. He woke up from the grave, hung out with his people, and then headed on up to heaven, creating a path for the rest of us. He showed us that our span of years on earth isn’t the end of our story.

He died so that we don’t have to make our own amends, to punish ourselves, to beat ourselves up over our bodies any longer.

He resurrected to show us that we can be part of His love and peace here on earth and forever. 

That was nice of him. He did it for all of us, but get this – even if you were the only person on earth, he would have done it just for you because at the core, he is love and love is extravagant. 

Jesus saves us from a life of body shame (and a few other dark paths) because there is no shame in love. He loves us that much. Lean into Him this Easter and ask Him to heal this area of your life, to give you life abundantly. He delights in your request.

Jesus, thank you for your sacrifice. Quiet our inner critics this Easter holiday. Remind us that we don’t have to punish ourselves because you paid the ultimate sacrifice. It’s in Your name we pray. Amen.

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Faith-Based Nutritional Counseling

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