Redemption

This coming weekend is an important one for each of the three Abrahamic faiths (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam). Jews begin the celebration of the eight-day Festival of Passover on Friday at sundown; most Christians mark Easter on Sunday, April 17; Muslims are in the middle of the holy month of Ramadan.

Although each of these religious traditions is distinct and these holidays are unique, there is a common theme among them: redemption. Redemption is generally described as the action of saving from sin, error, evil, or danger. In Judaism, Passover is the case of redemption par excellence. The Hebrews were saved from slavery in Egypt and brought out into freedom; once they had escaped they received the Torah and were able to worship God properly. In Christianity, Easter celebrates Jesus’ resurrection three days after his death; this represents Jesus’ victory over death and hints at the possibility of eternal life through acceptance of him as Messiah. Jesus is seen as a redeemer oforthose who believe in him. Ramadan is a month of fasting that honors the month in which Islamic scripture, Quran, was first revealed to the prophet, Muhammed. This revelation serves as a proper guide for Muslims of how to live their lives and avoid sin and evil. Redemption is a central theme in each holiday–all being observed at the same time this year!

How is this related to fitness? Many people despair of being able to stay or become physically fit–at any age, but more keenly as we grow older. This is where redemption comes in. The concept means that where we are today (physically, emotionally, spiritually) is not where we need to be forever; we are capable of overcoming obstacles and hardship and rising to a higher level. This is true in fitness at any age. For example, just because a person has problem with balance or walking does not mean that it will always be like that; of course, if no changes are made in behavior the problem will persist, but exercise, proper diet, and sufficient rest can make a huge impact. Focusing on our physical fitness can affect other areas as well. Working out releases hormones that elevate our mood. Additionally, if we are working out with a trainer or in a group setting, we are building relationship. The benefits of keeping physically active are numerous and have been mentioned throughout my blog. Exercise can truly grant us a kind of redemption. Not only that, keeping ourselves fit and healthy better allows us to do what it is that we were put on earth to do. We cannot serve God and humanity if we are too weak, frail, or sick to do so.

Best wishes to everyone for a redemptive season of the year. Chag Peseach Sameach! Happy Easter! Ramadan Kareem!