Posture. As soon as I see or hear the word, I put my shoulders back and sit up straight. Did you just do it, too? Sit up a little taller? 

I secretly envy all of you musicians, athletes, or dancers who naturally seem to hold your physical posture with strength and confidence. 

I have to work at it. To notice when I am leaning forward and when my shoulders start to become scrunched up. The more focused I get, the tighter my back becomes. Apparently, good posture matters!

But what about posture as an attitude? A dictionary definition tells us posture can also be defined as “A particular way of dealing with or considering something: an approach or attitude.”    

An approach or attitude. This grabs my attention. 

What is my attitude towards my work or ministry, as I tend to the upkeep of my home, when managing my finances, or volunteering in the community? What is my attitude when my circumstances are not what I had hoped for, when people let me down, or when I am required to do hard things? Do I lead from a heart of trust or fear? Am I searching for the good in my day, or do I only see the problem? 

How is my approach as I check in on a neighbor, help out a friend, care for an aging parent, or show love to my children? Do I approach with patience or kindness? Am I feeling rushed or inconvenienced? 

Breathe. 

We do not have to be perfect. Just yesterday, I noticed how guarded I was when negotiating at a car dealership. Sometimes, just noticing is all it takes to change my posture.

My invitation for each of us is to pay attention and notice how we carry ourselves. Both our physical posture and the posture of our heart deeply influence what we have to offer to others. What we have to offer ourselves. What we have to offer God.

Just like the musician who learns how to properly hold their instrument so they can create beautiful music, we too can trust how the ever-shaping posture of our heart can make a difference with our family, our friends and our neighbors.

Our posture draws us closer to Jesus.

Thank you, Jesus,
for inviting us into a posture of
humility 
openness
generosity. 
For moving slowly, 
for noticing each of us
and showing us how to be present. 

As we begin to put our hands and feet toward this year of  2024… May we stand tall, put our shoulders back, hold out our hands in prayer, and allow the Holy Spirit to lead us toward his people and our work in his Kingdom. 

I am curious… how your posture might look these days?