May 10, 2022

‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
‘Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
‘Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. (Matt. 5:3-5)
 
May is Mental Health Awareness month, a topic that has grown in importance in recent years. We have moved from a place in our country where emotions are for the bedroom, to feeling more comfortable talking about our struggles with each other.

Covid-19 has both raised our awareness around mental health issues and increased the impact of those issues in this country. We have witnessed several prominent members of society go through their struggles publicly. We also know that too many people struggle silently. 

To the right is a graphic describing where we are as a country in 2022: Source - https://www.mhanational.org/issues/state-mental-health-america
 
So where do we as the church fit into the mix of #breakthestigma around mental health? You should know that, as a member of this congregation, we are here for you. As your pastors, we are not trained in all the aspects of mental health, but we are able to listen, and to help you find someone to walk with you. We want to be part of your mental health team.

As part of your social-emotional health and your faith life, we want to talk about how you see God at work in your life. When Jesus began his ministry in Galilee, gathering crowds together, his first words were, “Blessed are the poor in spirit.” God sees your pain. God wants to let everyone know that he cares and offers a blessing of encouragement.

If you are struggling, please reach out. I would love to sit and listen over a cup of tea or coffee and offer words of encouragement.  In this season of resurrection, let us move from death to life, and even more, to life abundantly.

God’s Peace,
 
Pastor Tim