I am the Pastor of Faith Formation at Nelson Avenue Community Church. We take a holistic view of Faith Formation defining it as "the life long journey (from cradle to grave) of being transformed into the image of Jesus Christ for the sake of others." I'm learning how to make this definition a practical part of our everyday life both in our church community and outside our church.
As someone diagnosed with MS and unable to continue working, I too have had to find joy and contentment in the midst of suffering. For me it was Eph 2:10, "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.". I realized that God knew I would need hours of rest, that I would be unable to work and that he still had a plan for me to serve him. I learned and still am learning the joy of being rather than doing, the joy of being in God's presence and the joy of prayer. God has brought healing that has primarily been emotional and spiritual. I have found new purpose in life and a new way of living that I never would have found had I been healthy and working full time. As much as I wish I didn't have MS, I don't know that I would trade where I am now with God and with myself either. God is good and he is faithful.
Do you have any suggestions for good books or resources about setting up mentoring programs and relationships? I believe in mentoring. I think it is something we need to be more intentional in many ways in the church, but I'm at a loss about how to start or set up opportunities for such relationships. Any advice would be welcome.
Thank you Syd. You beautifully express what has been on my heart. I will join you in this time of holy uncertainty on my knees in prayer. Thank you for giving us a posture for this time.
Thank you Josh and Jarett for bravely sharing your story. It really highlights the need for all of us to become more educated and more sympathetic to those with mental health issues. I think as a church we have a long way to go to removing the stigma we place on others. I pray your story is another step forward.
When I stepped down as Prayer Ministry Director I was overwhelmed by the cards I received. There was the card from the Pastor, my Ministry Leader and then others that shared how the ministry had impacted them. I still have them. Don't let a volunteer step away without telling them how much their ministry and work has meant. Personal stories are really great.
I have Multiple Sclerosis and have come to accept my life and enjoy it most of the time. I recently had a conversation with someone in my church who asked if I prayed for God to cure me. I said that I prayed for daily strength, to do meaningful ministry, to learn well in my studies, to grow in intimacy with the Lord but no, I really didn't pray to be cured. I always pray for greater remission though. He was surprised and I realized that accepting I have MS and embracing all God has for me now, I'm happier and have greater wellness then I did when I was fine and working. God is faithful, no matter what is happening in our lives.
Thank you for your post Elizabeth. I found the same thing true for me. Forgiveness came in God's time and in his way. Often a little at a time. I wonder if sometimes survivors are "pushed" to forgive because it more comfortable for the other person than really sitting with the survivor in their pain and anger.
Our church celebrates Mother's Day by celebrating all women. The children hand out carnations to every women during the service. We also, in our prayer, are intentional about mentioning all the various difficulties women may struggle with.
Thank you for bringing this topic to the forefront of our discussions. I have felt from the very beginning of my safe church involvement that the church of Christ is called to minister to victims of abuse. We know the source of all healing, Jesus Christ. How can we not reach out to those who are so terribly hurt and bruised. We aren't there yet. At least we've gone beyond children's ministries to including vulnerable adults. We're a long way from truly being a safe church where disclosure of any kind of sin is accepted and safe to do.
Posted in: Matthew's Super Messiah
It's great to read about these assignments again from your view point Joe. Thanks for sharing.
Posted in: Chronic Pain and the Fullness of Joy
As someone diagnosed with MS and unable to continue working, I too have had to find joy and contentment in the midst of suffering. For me it was Eph 2:10, "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.". I realized that God knew I would need hours of rest, that I would be unable to work and that he still had a plan for me to serve him. I learned and still am learning the joy of being rather than doing, the joy of being in God's presence and the joy of prayer. God has brought healing that has primarily been emotional and spiritual. I have found new purpose in life and a new way of living that I never would have found had I been healthy and working full time. As much as I wish I didn't have MS, I don't know that I would trade where I am now with God and with myself either. God is good and he is faithful.
Posted in: The Importance of Mentoring
Do you have any suggestions for good books or resources about setting up mentoring programs and relationships? I believe in mentoring. I think it is something we need to be more intentional in many ways in the church, but I'm at a loss about how to start or set up opportunities for such relationships. Any advice would be welcome.
Posted in: Homosexuality and Holy Uncertainty
Thank you Syd. You beautifully express what has been on my heart. I will join you in this time of holy uncertainty on my knees in prayer. Thank you for giving us a posture for this time.
Posted in: A Battle With Anxiety: Jarett's Story (Part II)
Thank you Josh and Jarett for bravely sharing your story. It really highlights the need for all of us to become more educated and more sympathetic to those with mental health issues. I think as a church we have a long way to go to removing the stigma we place on others. I pray your story is another step forward.
Posted in: Showing Appreciation for Church Volunteers
When I stepped down as Prayer Ministry Director I was overwhelmed by the cards I received. There was the card from the Pastor, my Ministry Leader and then others that shared how the ministry had impacted them. I still have them. Don't let a volunteer step away without telling them how much their ministry and work has meant. Personal stories are really great.
Posted in: Jesus Knew
Louis, It has been a pleasure reading your insights on the Network. May God bless you as you travel the road ahead.
Posted in: Disability Doesn't Preclude Wellness
I have Multiple Sclerosis and have come to accept my life and enjoy it most of the time. I recently had a conversation with someone in my church who asked if I prayed for God to cure me. I said that I prayed for daily strength, to do meaningful ministry, to learn well in my studies, to grow in intimacy with the Lord but no, I really didn't pray to be cured. I always pray for greater remission though. He was surprised and I realized that accepting I have MS and embracing all God has for me now, I'm happier and have greater wellness then I did when I was fine and working. God is faithful, no matter what is happening in our lives.
Posted in: Forgiveness
Thank you for your post Elizabeth. I found the same thing true for me. Forgiveness came in God's time and in his way. Often a little at a time. I wonder if sometimes survivors are "pushed" to forgive because it more comfortable for the other person than really sitting with the survivor in their pain and anger.
Posted in: Mark Stephenson Recognized for Network Blogs
Congratulations Mark! Well deserved.
Posted in: How Does Your Church Celebrate Mother's and Fathers' Day?
Our church celebrates Mother's Day by celebrating all women. The children hand out carnations to every women during the service. We also, in our prayer, are intentional about mentioning all the various difficulties women may struggle with.
Posted in: Is Someone Missing?
Thank you for bringing this topic to the forefront of our discussions. I have felt from the very beginning of my safe church involvement that the church of Christ is called to minister to victims of abuse. We know the source of all healing, Jesus Christ. How can we not reach out to those who are so terribly hurt and bruised. We aren't there yet. At least we've gone beyond children's ministries to including vulnerable adults. We're a long way from truly being a safe church where disclosure of any kind of sin is accepted and safe to do.