- How could someone you trust use you without abandon?
- How could someone you shared your heart with exploit it for personal gain and control?
- How could someone you love be so reckless?
- How could someone who had your best interests in mind suddenly take everything from you?
At times like these, we offer all the Christian words and the verses that we are supposed to like Romans 8:28, Philippians 4:13, Genesis 50:20 and we say that we'll pray. But in reality, very few pause long enough to notice what happens when all sense of security is lost and to hear the cries of someone rendered helpless and sinking.Sometimes we add to the confusion and hurt by giving our Christian answers when what is needed most is a hug, a shoulder to cry on, patience for the journey, a listening ear, or some tangible way that extends the loving arms of God outward. I never want to discount the value and importance and hope of God's Word; however, when the illusion of safety is suddenly shattered, love, comfort, acceptance, and a shelter free from judgment and condemnation are paramount. When this kind of shelter is created, it makes room for God and His Word to enter in powerfully and speak into the darkest fears and deepest insecurities.
There are many of us out there ready to share a verse and to say we are praying, but how many of us will take the time to see beyond that and to purposefully be and create a safe place for others? How many are willing to help others walk step-by-step as they regain their sense of safety and security without the pressure of performance or a timetable? In this way, we learn to become people of safety as we offer Jesus and His hope through our love, empathy, and compassion as we walk alongside others in their pain rather than toss out a well-meaning verse at a distance and pray that all will be well.
Five Minute Friday (#FMFparty) gives writers a word prompt. We are encouraged to write whatever comes to mind about that word in just five minutes. No editing, no perfection, only writing from the heart. To find out more, visit http://katemotaung.com/five-minute-friday/. This week's word is "SAFE".
Wow. What a powerful post.
ReplyDeleteI think that creating a safe place for others is hard, because it means one has to face one's own vulnerabilities in that creation...and that may be more than one's soul can bear.
#1 at FMF this week.
http://blessed-are-the-pure-of-heart.blogspot.com/2017/02/your-dying-spouse-270-safe-place-fmf.html
You are so right on that!!! Love how your blog this week extends along this line of thought! There is so much we can do to be safe for others but yeah, it takes experiencing the unsafe and working through it to be that safe place.
DeleteThis is a great post with so much truth. It's sad that while people have good intentions in sharing Bible verses sometimes it seems like offering a sticking plaster for a deep wound. We need to be people who comfort and listen and provide a place where others feel safe- that is a true reflection of Jesus. Glad to be your FMF neighbour today.
ReplyDeleteThank you! It's hard to see the good intentions when you're in midst a crisis so it means that much more when a friend offers that safety.
DeleteSo much truth in what you say. But I have learned through my own dark storms to give grace to those who use Scripture as a bandaid. Often it is all they have to offer. While it may not be what I need, may seem trite, there is always hope in God's Word.
ReplyDeleteYou are right! There is always hope in God's Word!
DeleteWell said, Amy.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Debby.
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