Message Minute (Restored to Community)

"But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high." Psalm 3:3

Shame isolates. It convinces you to stay hidden, to keep secrets, to carry burdens alone. The bleeding woman lived twelve years cut off from community, worship, and human touch.

But Jesus didn't just heal her disease, He restored her to community. We have reason to believe this woman became part of the early church in Jerusalem. Imagine those first Christians studying the Gospels together and reading this story about someone sitting right there with them. The woman who used to hide in shame was now thriving in community, part of the most powerful movement in history.

That's God's plan for you too. He forms His church from broken people overwhelmed by shame, declares them new creations, and gives them purpose and power. The church should be a place where it's safe to say, "I'm not okay" and find compassion instead of judgment.

Before gathering with family this season, consider: who's your safe person to talk with beforehand? When shame gets triggered at the dinner table, who can you text who already knows your story and can remind you of truth? Don't process shame alone. Don't walk into situations carrying unspoken weight.

Shame wants you isolated and silent. But speaking it to someone safe diffuses its power.

Reflection: Who is one safe person you can be honest with about your shame before family gatherings?
 
Prayer: God, thank You for community. Help me find courage to be vulnerable with safe people who will point me back to Your truth. Amen.