Sharing and Listening

A friend and colleague in the teahcing ministry shared this with me in a recent message:

"Too often in the church as members of Christ's body, we tend to go into the "I'm fine" mode. No one sees or knows our pain and we suffer in silence. I think we tend to be afraid that others will think we're not strong or that our faith isn't strong or something.

The real truth is that God has made us family. Family members share their joys and their pain! We can support one another, care for one another, or just silently listen to one another. Sharing isn't sign of weakness, it's a sign of strength."

That really struck me. That's exactly why I've been posting on this blog. Not only has it helped me cope and make sense of this illness, but, it's also helped others help me, I think.

"Share one another's burdens..." Galatians 6:3

Right now, I realize that there is not a single person on this earth, no friend, family member, professional, or other person who I could sit down with and they could magically fix what's wrong.  I wish it was that way. But it's not. And I must face reality.

Reality is, God puts people in our lives to listen, and people to help by listening. So many people have been able to just sit down and listened while I blabbered on like a baby. And they didn't have any words, just being there to listen was enough for me.

I hope everyone also understands that just because I am sick, I don't not want to help you as well. Please don't be afraid to share something with me, or if you want help or advice about a situation you can come talk to me. ....

I've missed being in the "Giver" role- I've been a receiver the majority of the time and I would love nothing more than to give back and to show love like people have shown love and support to me.

Thanks be to God for the gift of fellowship and blessing us with community and people who are willing to share and listen. What an amazing gift.