Alignment

“Alignment” has special meaning to me because chiropractic care has proven beneficial for my physical body for many years.  For those not familiar with chiropractic care, www.mayoclinic.org defines it as “a procedure in which trained specialists (chiropractors) use their hands or a small instrument to apply a controlled, sudden force to a spinal joint… to improve spinal motion and improve your body's physical function.” 
Through the years my chiropractor has applied “a controlled, sudden force” to my spinal joints to get them in alignment.  I’ve often wondered about spiritual “alignment”? Is that possible?

I believe it is because in Matt 22:36-39 Jesus answered a question:  36 “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?”37 Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’  40On these two commandments hang on all the law and the prophets.” 

Love God.  Love people.  These are simple components of spiritual alignment.
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During this very unusual time in our world when most of our daily routines are “out of alignment”, I believe we have a real opportunity to get some aspects in alignment spiritually.  What does this involve? 

In thinking about my personal chiropractic visits three things come to mind.  I must be intentional and schedule an appointment, trust that he is a specialist that knows how to help me and surrender to the process. 

Do any of those relate to our spiritual life? I believe they do in many ways and with some thought our lives can have an adjustment that brings about greater spiritual alignment.

Be intentional about loving Him and others  Many times I have wanted all the elements to be perfect before approaching Him.  I want the house to be clean and quiet, to have a couple of hours to spend with Him and enough energy to stay awake.  We all know life happens and seldom do all those things come together at the same time.  I encourage you to get over it and get on with it! One sentence from Him while you are sweeping cereal off the kitchen floor can change your life.  Intentionally reach for Him wherever you are, whenever you can.  I promise you He is there.  Intentionally find ways to love others during this time.  Reach out to neighbors, people who are afraid or small business owners who could benefit from an encouraging word.

Trust Him  So much is wrapped up in that word.  Do I trust that Father God is who He says He is?  Is He really the “specialist” that can take care all my needs?  Comfort can come if we believe Psalm 91:1-2 “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.  2) I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; my God in Him I will trust.”

Surrender to the process Just as one must allow the chiropractor to “apply a controlled, sudden force to a spinal joint” for the treatment to be effective, there are times when we must surrender to the hand of God in our life.  It isn’t always comfortable. Just relax and work through the process of being realigned by the one who intercedes for you daily before the throne of God.   Many times after an adjustment there is a bit of discomfort as the body begins to heal and more than one visit is necessary to reach the desired alignment.  Be patient if that happens as spiritual alignment takes place. 

Our entire world is in a time of being “out of alignment” from what we consider normal.  Now would be the perfect time to ask God to realign our hearts, mind and soul to love Him and love our neighbors as ourselves.  It is the perfect time to ask Him to realign marriages, families and relationships.  Now is a great time for realignment!