Too Much Pain To Participate

Although people come through the doors of a church for many different reasons, one of the most common motivations/draws/aspirations is the belief that the church is a place of refuge, hope, and healing care through the storms of life. A place where one’s heart will be safe. But what happens when the place that was supposed to be a refuge, turns into the source of your pain? When those you thought you were in heart-to-heart community with, turn and trample your heart underfoot? When you are misunderstood, neglected, used, and even abused by those claiming the name of Jesus – both community and leaders alike – it can feel like it’s time to tap out. Is there any real hope for the church to be a genuine community of healing and love – in the midst of pain and broken trust? Once wounded, how are you ever supposed to risk your heart again?