I am not a psychologist, so I could be terribly wrong, but from my pastoral observations of people and from my work of pastoral counseling, I deeply believe that most cases of psychosis (mental illness; break from reality) are caused by peoples relentless determination to avoid pain (pain in all of its forms: physical, emotional, or mental, i.e., doubt, ambiguity, adversity, etc.). This avoidance of pain has, even, become the central message of much of the Church. And guess, then, what THAT means. ... Jesus didnt avoid pain; he faced it, overcame it, defeated it, and transformed it! (including the pain that we so desperately try to avoid). This is, essentially, the meaning and magnificence of his Cross (crucifixion). ... But who wants to hear about pain and adversity? Preacher, give me positive, happy news. ... Selah.
Posted on: Thu, 10 Apr 2014 17:29:36 +0000