Pastor's Place - September 2005

Respect for Recovery

Dear Friends:

It's hard to change. It's hard to change our habits. It's hard to change aspects of our personality. That's why I have so much respect for people who have said "no more" to substance abuse, and have entered recovery programs.

Some people leave behind damaging addictions with the help of Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. Some enter residential treatment. Some use counseling resources available in the community. Some evolve their own personalized strategies for supporting their decision to live a more healthy life. In all cases, the individual's initiative is so important.

I have always been struck by the words that Jesus spoke to a certain man who had been waiting for years by the Pool of Bethsaida, hoping to obtain healing (John 5:1-9). Jesus saw the man and asked, "Do you want to be made well?" I take this to mean that God has the power to heal, AND that God works with our consent, willingness, invitation, and desire. Wanting to be well is foundational to the transformation that the power of Christ can accomplish. So is the willingness to accept God's help.

I salute all those within the congregation who have decided to pursue healing from addiction, and have made use of all the resources available. I know that often, people have to leave behind old friends, old sources of comfort, and even old jobs in order to build a new life. I know that new coping mechanisms and new methods for relieving stress must be found. As you create new patterns, find new joy, attend meetings, help others, and remain committed to your recovery, I hope you know how inspiring you are.

For those of you who might be needing to make a change, or a turn toward sobriety, take heart. It can be done! The lives of many of our brothers and sisters in Christ give testimony that, with God's help, and plenty of perseverance and diligence, transformation is possible. "Rise, take your mat, and walk," said Jesus to the man who had been stuck in one place for 38 years, and that's exactly what he did.

Keep up the good work, all you AA and NA members, and all you walking various other roads to recovery. Your ministry is important!

"Grace and peace to you, from God our Creator, and the Lord Jesus Christ."

Pastor April