Better together
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor; if either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” Ecclesiastes 4:9 (NIV)
You just can’t help feeling inspired when others around you are boldly modeling exactly what you want to be doing! Two recent events charged my spirit and energized my work and service for the Lord. RECHARGE™, the annual convention by Body & Soul®, which brings in group fitness instructors and others from all over the world, is the ultimate energizing event! And a local fitness Fun Fest where I lead Body & Soul® classes reminded me of the supportive value of companionship.
At RECHARGE™ 2023 I watched emboldened women try new things (and succeed in qualifying to lead others in them!) Women shared stories of God’s leading in their next steps as they were encouraged by others’ sharing.
My local Body & Soul® Fitness friends recently came together to support the ministry and lift me up as we introduced the workout to new people. It was encouraging to see the genuine joy with which each instructor led her chosen songs and then hear from joyful students and guests afterward! The soul-sister support was palpable.
You can have that too. Through Body & Soul® Fitness classes, God gives us the opportunity to be in a community that not only supports our physical health and wellness efforts, but is there for us emotionally and encourages us spiritually.
Reflection: in a world trying to come out of isolation and solitude, how can you gently coax others into a supportive relationship they might be craving?
by Shawn Maassel, Huntingtown, MD
Shawn began taking Body & Soul® classes as a student in 1990 after her first child was born. Years later, after a move and transition to full-time church work, she became a Body & Soul® Instructor in order to bring the ministry and classes to her new church. She has been leading classes since 2003 in Huntingtown, Maryland, and enjoys being part of the Body & Soul® Spiritual Impact Team. Shawn and her husband have three grown children and two grandsons across the country.
