How is it with your soul?

In the early days of the Methodist movement under the direction of John Wesley, small groups of about 20-25 people would meet together in a house or someplace that would accommodate that size group. The leader, usually a lay person, would begin the meeting by asking each person present that very question: "How is it with your soul?"

This sparkling conversation starter was designed to provoke each person to uncover and reveal some spiritual insight into his or her life. Ultimately it led to greater spiritual depth, as this was a regular and common question.  This is a much better question than that which we so often use in our own church conversations: "How are you?" That one has become commonplace and a generic, almost meaningless, greeting. The expected response is along the lines: "Fine, thanks...and you?"

Our answer is designed to ward off any real inquiry into our health, spiritual or otherwise. We just don't want to talk about it. It's none of your business! We can simply do that 'hit and run' piece of meeting and greeting and walk away with the feeling that we have been friendly and caring. But what if we did care enough to ask the question the Methodists used to ask? Would it make a difference in our lives if we honestly worried about the state of someone's soul? How about the way we might feel if someone bothered to ask us about our own soul?

And how would we respond? That's a tough one! Right now I am praying over the idea of creating a sermon series that would begin in February and would be based on the fruit of the Spirit. If we could realize the impact that the Holy Spirit has on our lives, our souls would no doubt be rejuvinated and refreshed. Instead of worrying about so much stuff in our world an the anxieties of everyday life, what difference might it make to us (and our church) if we spoke out loud of the work of God's Spirit within us as we evolved into more loving, joyful, forgiving beings?

Do you long to overflow with love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control? These are the things the indwelling Spirit of God will provide to those who thirst for Him. Without those things, there is evidence that the Spirit is missing in action. So let's talk about it, and see if we might find ways to improve the health of our souls!