A Word About Content this Sunday
This Sunday, we are celebrating back to school, blessing of the bags and backpacks, and exploring the beautiful passage of Matthew 19:13–15 where Jesus says, “Allow the children to come to me . . . because the kingdom of heaven belongs to people like these children.”
This will be a family-friendly and hope-filled message. And, it will deal with some heavy stuff. So, I want to offer you this:
Content Warning: Church Trauma
Many of us have experienced incredible blessings and joy through the church, and we all know someone who has experienced deep pain through the church. While I am one of those, this is not about me. This Sunday is not about me. While I’ve shared a lot of my own personal experiences, I try to keep those in balance.
This week is about us, as a church, as Christians. Some of the issues mentioned in the sermon may bring up old hurts or remind you of deeps scars and wounds. Reminiscing about those often re-exposes us to their associated emotions of pain, anger, regret, or other trauma related responses.
I don’t want you to miss this week, and I want you prepared. If this is you, if you find the topic overwhelming, remember, we will not leave you there. There is hope in this message, there is healing in this message. Sometimes, when we experience trauma, we need more hope and healing than what we can get through a 20-minute sermon or one hour worship.
If this is you, we’re here for you, we want to help. I want you to know you can reach out to me, or Pastor Josh, or Joanna, or any of our Stephen Ministers. I am here for you. Let’s talk. Moreover, I would be willing to refer you to a licensed counselor or therapist for a series of sessions or ongoing treatment to help you heal.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Daniel
