Feb 2011 Newletter Articles
Hope for the Hurting
One of the most famous and influential Christian converts in history was a terrorist and murderer. Then something great happened and his life, over time, changed dramatically for the better. Afterward Saul the jealous, hate filled radical became St. Paul who wrote the greatest hymn of love ever penned in I CO 13.
Christianity has always been about changed lives and bringing God’s love to hurting persons. Every charitable hospital, clinic and medical training center in America was founded on Judeo/ Christian values and traditions. Foreign missions have almost always begun with a medical outreach to the poor, marginalized and rejected in society. That has always been our focus.
In the Sixties I taught school and saw the pain of family life expressed through many of my students, especially the poor. After a few years in the classroom I sensed a strong call to become a Counselor and learn more about the healing arts to better promote the care and cure of souls. I was surprised to learn that churches deliver over 2/3 of all counseling in America, usually for free. Over 40% of all people with a personal or family crisis go to the church for help. No wonder Ministers were overwhelmed by the increase in mental and emotional distress.
We know from professional and personal experiences as well as through research that Christ’s truth and love can bring significant healing. Even seriously distressed individuals can benefit from a caring congregation. Help usually comes in small steps over an agonizingly long time. Slowly and slowly people get better when they experience God’s in a caring fellowship. Those with a serious mental illness show signs of improvement when befriended by a caring adult.
I don’t know if the young shooter in Tucson or if his family had any religious connections. But this tragedy reminds us why the caring ministry of the Great Physician through ordinary people is so important to the well as well as those in great pain.
Jesus said, "You shall know believers by their fruit…” and there is no greater source of healing than the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, and kindness that come from God’s people. This truth has been proven over and over by reams of research and experience around the world. Thanks to your faithful support and prayers we are making Disciples for the Great Physician in over fifty countries.
Now God has opened up an opportunity to our eyes to the deep needs of families and churches with members who have serious disabilities. We have expanded our traditional teachings to include equipping churches and individuals how to better care for these highly stressed persons. We are still equipping churches how to "Build a lifetime of great relationships” and support these families with love and practical assistance. If you or your church is interested in learning more about the VIP Project contact Andrea Bowsher at andreabowsher@gmail.com or
513-378-5209.