Fearfully and wonderfully made

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Good morning! Recently, I have been reading about how some eighteenth- scholars believed the human body works. In the absence of the wealth of scientific knowledge that now attends medicine, some of our ancestors in that era had intriguing ideas about our physiology. Franz Anton Mesmer is a prime example. An Austrian physician, his theory of ‘animal magnetism’ led to wide speculation about his bizarre medical practices among the general public, and to hysteria on the part of his patients. The terms ‘mesmerising’ and ‘mesmerism’ originate with his name, and they still hold an almost hypnotic sound in their syllables. It is easy to look back on early efforts to scientifically understand our bodies with a sense of superiority or cynicism. But even with our amassed knowledge today, much of what makes us tick and what stops us from ticking can evade the best medical minds. We remain an enigma to ourselves. In Psalm 139, the Psalmist marvels at our bodies and encourages us to praise God because we are ‘fearfully and wonderfully made’. This truth can prompt both humility and gladness in our hearts. We are creatures, loved and known by our Creator, and our very existence is owing to his power and grace. Acknowledging him as our sustainer and seeking him as our Saviour weaves theology into our biology and can lead us to true praise. Almighty God, divine Creator, we bless you for the mystery and marvel of the human body. We thank you that we are complex beings, reflecting your image and your creative will. Teach us to praise you for the miracle of life. We pray for those labouring in research and in frontline medical care today, sustain them in the rigours of their work, and continue to use them for good in our world. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.