“…nothing can be written about ministry without a deeper understanding of the ways in which the minister can make his own wounds available as a source of healing.”
Henri J.M. Nouwen in “The Wounded Healer”
As a Christian for 38 years and a minister of the gospel for 33 years, I have seen both the good and the bad meted out by the church. I've seen brothers and sisters torn down, ripped apart, gossiped about, neglected, forgotten, etc. Because of the wounds that I have — many as a result of my own sins — I believe that the Lord has called me to be what Brother Nouwen calls a “Wounded Healer.”
Some of our t-shirts and bracelets reveal the thought-provoking WWJD – What Would Jesus Do? Always a good thought before a decision is to be made, but how often do we consider what Jesus would do for the sister who has fallen into sin? What would He say to the brother who is troubled by the disappointments in his life?
The Word provides the answers: “Restore…in a spirit of gentleness” (Galatians 6:1) and “encourage and build up one another” (1Thessalonians 5:11)
It is my prayer that this blog would aid in the restoration of the fallen and provide encouragement to wounded, hurting, and abandoned Christians. Amen.
“Think of me as a fellow-patient in the same hospital who, having been admitted a little earlier, could give some advice.”
C.S. Lewis in “A Severe Mercy” a letter to Sheldon Vanauken.
Wonderful & beautifully written! Proud to be following you & can't wait to see what you write next!
ReplyDeleteOh, how needed this ministry is. Just reminds me of the two women Jesus ministered to. One in Samaria and the other - about to be stoned. What compassion He had for them and how strengthened and healed they were because they met Him. I pray that in Restoration & Encouragement Ministries, you'll see the "even greater things"
ReplyDeleteRita from castteam
I am excited to be following your blog.
ReplyDelete"Restore in a spirit of gentleness" really reaches my heart.
Sue - castteam
God bless "Restoration and Encouragement Ministries" for the wounded people of God (aka: "The Church"). For the church to know His all merciful and loving grace more fully - TO GOD BE THE GLORY! I am proud of you my friend and brother in the faith, for this endeavor - this badly needed ministry - you have embarked on for Jesus Christ. May many souls join this blog to hear what The Lord lays on your heart to encourage and restore them to a peace-filled and closer walk with our Savior. "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus..." Romans 8:1 Your Friend, Gino <><
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comments and prayers--they are most appreciated. I'm planning on posting a new blog over this weekend. Hope that you can check it out and let me know what think. Please feel free to let others know about the blog. Thanks again. Have a blessed and safe 4th of July.
ReplyDeleteGrace and Peace,
Pastor Larry
Amen to your last blog! Years ago, for the first time, I remember reading a bumper sticker (or a t-shirt) that stated this: "Every time Satan reminds you of your past, remind him of his future!" THAT was a blessing to me then as it still is today! Your last message is a great encouragement...Thank You Jesus for Your Merciful, Unconditional, Love!
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