Joy comes through growth. Being stretched in a healthy way feels good. Children know this instinctively, and they are always up for a new challenge.

Before we work out, stretching loosens us up and stimulates blood flow to the muscles. When we eat a meal, special muscle spindles stretch as the stomach fills, releasing chemicals that signal fullness and satisfaction.

In sexual arousal, tissues fill with blood. As they engorge, they stretch and become more sensitive to touch, so stretching promotes pleasure and allows for a connection of intimacy and oneness.

Probably the most extreme experience of stretching in the body is in childbearing. Pregnancy brings uncomfortable stretching, and in childbirth it can be excruciating, yet stretching allows for one of God’s greatest gifts to be born. In a similar way, spiritual and emotional stretching makes room for life.

Makarios, the Greek word we translate “blessed”, is the first word of every beatitude. It refers to a profound sense of well-being, but it also implies enlarging or stretching. The root mak is opposite of the root micro.There is no doubt that walking the path of the Beatitudes stretches us and enlarges our capacity to love.

Is God stretching your faith, your patience or persistence? Rather than resisting, lean into it. He wants His life to grow in you. For like pregnancy, spiritual growth is difficult, but the new life it brings is worth it!

S-T-R-E-T-C-H and release!