By Rev. Dr. Derrick Elliott, pastor, Sun Lakes United Church of Christ
In a world where life’s complexities often push us to focus on the immediate, some questions invite us to pause and consider the deeper aspects of our existence.
Among these timeless inquiries is one that underlies much of our spiritual exploration: What is a soul?
Though it may not be a question we hear often, I reflect on it frequently as a pastor, especially when guiding others through moments of contemplation or life’s significant transitions.
In the Christian Bible, the soul is understood as a gift from God, the very breath that animates us and makes us more than mere physical beings.
The soul is introduced in Genesis 2:7, which describes God breathing life into Adam: “Then the Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; the man became a living being.”
This divine breath marks the soul as the core of our identity, the essence that gives us life, purpose, and a connection to the Creator.
The idea of the soul is not limited to religious discussions. Throughout history, philosophers have delved into the concept, seeing the soul as the seat of wisdom, virtue, and the essence that defines us.
Plato viewed the soul as an immortal entity transcending the physical body, while Aristotle described it as the life force that gives shape and meaning to our existence.
These perspectives align with the understanding that the soul animates us, shaping our thoughts, actions, and relationships.
Even in today’s world, with its emphasis on science and measurable realities, the idea of the soul persists in our language and our lives.
We speak of “soul-searching” when we seek deeper meaning or purpose, and we describe actions as “soulless” when they lack compassion or humanity.
These expressions reveal that, at our core, we recognize the existence of something profound within us that goes beyond the physical and touches the spiritual.
As a pastor, I believe the soul is central to our humanity. It is where our values are formed, love originates, and our moral compass is housed.
The soul is the part of us that yearns for connection, meaning, and purpose. It drives us to seek personal fulfillment, care for others, and contribute to a more just and compassionate world.
Understanding the soul is more than an intellectual exercise; it is about recognizing the sacredness of our lives and the lives of those around us.
The soul invites us to live purposefully, act with integrity, and nurture the divine spark within ourselves and others. When we honor the soul, we honor the mystery and beauty of life itself.
May we grow in appreciation for life’s gift and be inspired to live in a way that reflects the divine breath within us. Let us nurture our souls and those of others, reflecting the love and purpose of our creation.
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