A Healing Balm

Bible Reading: Romans 12:9-18
Author: Mrs. Pamela Rosales (Oregon, USA)
Thursday 28 March 2024 © The Upper Room.
My world shattered when I read an anonymous letter exposing my husband’s affair.  Afterward, we lived apart for a time, and I began attending a church in my new location.  The church provided one-on-one counselling, and my counsellor encouraged me to join a women’s Bible study.  The leader invited me to an upcoming retreat and told me about a women’s prayer group that prays for individuals in need.  Everywhere I turned I found welcoming, loving people.  Most did not know of my situation, but their care and acceptance was a balm to my broken heart and decimated self-esteem.

Later, my husband began attending church with me.  The sincere welcoming and forgiving behaviour of those who knew our situation helped him on his journey to understand what being a forgiven follower of Jesus really means.

Through it all, I realised how important it is for each of us to be warm and friendly to every person we encounter.  We cannot know the pain and sorrow that others are dealing with, but in this broken world almost everyone is hurting in some way.  That pain may bring someone to church for the first time.  But whether a new or long-time attender, each desperately needs the kindness that represents the grace and healing Christ offers.

Prayer: O God, help me to see each person as your creation and to show each of them your love.  Amen.

Hide the testimonials
God bless you all and thanks to God for Ramon's healing! \O/ SD