To truly CONNECT, a disciple of Jesus must live out an authenticity that is counter-cultural. The connection that we refer to includes an openness to the input of others and their discernment, an authenticity based on our willingness to be our “true self” in the relationship and finally a genuine love for one each other that comes from a deep awareness of how loved we are by God himself.
We were made for connection! God created us in His image. An image that includes a constant connection (Father, Son, Spirit).
Search the web for "more connected than ever" and you will find pages and pages of articles explaining how our "connectedness" of today is actually leading to more loneliness than ever.
After looking at Jesus' words about Pharisees and whitewashed tombs on Sunday, I discussed the need for each of us to:
- Spend time on the inside.
- Tone down the "outside".
It seems to me that one of the great lacks of the church today is the ability to be self-aware and able to receive insight from others concerning our actual life. If we would each take more time in quiet contemplation with God, He will make us aware of the weaknesses and broken places He wants to redeem within us.
Along with that, if we would each take a look at how we present ourselves, and choose to be vulnerable, authentic, and unassuming in our presentation of self to others, we would create a bridge to genuine connections which bring life to others and to ourselves.
In these two ways, we can become more and more a representative, a picture, an example of how God is at work, and how God is actively engaged in lives that are "still broken".
I am thankful that God has been at work in my life for all of it, but especially during these 25 years of pastoral ministry. Over that time (as I shared on Sunday) I have struggled with things I was not able to speak about. Depression, Anxiety, Loneliness and yes, even suicide. While my story includes much more to share, I want to just say this;
We, the church, Christians, MUST become more open to talking about and actively engaging with our own mental health issues as well as the great needs all around us.
Only then, can we become a place of safety and healing for others as well as ourselves. Only then will we experience authenticity which points to being a people of Grace who are living lives ever-grateful for the mercy and goodness of God.
TO CONSIDER:
- What has your own journey/story included as it relates to mental health issues and struggles?
- Is there anyone with whom you have talked openly about these needs?
- What (if any) are the areas you feel you cannot share with other Christians because of the stigma included in them. (Struggles, doubts, fears, …)
FOR FURTHER THOUGHT:
This Sunday, September 22, we plan to have an informal gathering at River Oaks to talk about these important needs. I hope you will consider joining us.
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Thank you!