I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20
Every church has its share of obvious walking wounded. You know what I’m talking about. They seem to live under a cloud, born losers, never can seem to do anything right. Like Linus they don’t meet potential. In fact, they don’t believe they have potential. They suck off an incredible amount of church resources and pastor patience. In the end, we don’t seem to know what to do with them. Deep inside we know they have great potential, but it’s difficult, sometimes impossible to see.
What should we say to them? How should we treat them. Sadly, and if the truth be known, there are many more hurting than the obvious ones.The tough cases are the wounded ones who never appear wounded, who don’t let their wounds show. That includes almost all of us.
Our message needs to be; “God loves you so much that Jesus Christ hung in agony and blood for you. You are precious to God. You are the object of God’s love. The blood of Jesus Christ was poured out on Calvary for you. The cross sets you free. He who died for you now lives in you. He gave Himself for you that He might give Himself to you. When Jesus Christ died for you, He didn’t just take away your sins, He took away your self. You are crucified. So who can harm a dead man? But more he gave you new potential, the possibility of a meaningful and blessed existence.
On Sunday night at Amana we will consider how we can better deal with the wounded, especially those wounded by the church. Join us. You are either wounded or dealing with someone who is. So this session is for you.
See you then.
Nick
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