Every so often, we experience hurts and pains. They are part of life that we don’t look forward to, but we know we’ll have to deal with from time to time. And even though these hurts may be presented in various ways, it’s difficult when they come from church. Not the physical church as in the building (that might be easier to deal with), but the church as the people within the building; the Body of Christ. What do you do when Christians, the very people who are supposed to be shining the light of Christ on others, are figuratively “putting peoples’ lights out” with their words and actions. Seemingly acting with the best of intentions for God, they simply haven’t looked behind them to see the injured people left in their wake. And what can follow is a myriad of things: damaged pride, lack of participation, offense, resentment, and even being distanced from the church. But fortunately, breakthroughs can be forged, relationships can be restored and lives can be changed according to how we choose to respond to our hurtful experiences. The love that we respond with may not shield us from the pain we’re feeling, but it may very well save the next person from it. Jesus endured more pain that we could imagine but He always responded with love. We are called to do the same, especially within the “church”.

1 Corinthians 13 is a great chapter read it in its entirety some time this week:

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.
-1 Corinthians 13:4-8