I am a reader and although I relish discovering ideas, experiences and various perspectives, I am finding myself overwhelmed. Due to the nature of Unconditional Ministies, I read books I wouldn't typically choose. I'm grateful to have acess to the work of gifted individuals navigating the complexities within the LGBTQ+ experience. The magnitude of the toil, research, and personal angst that went into providing credible resources for others is beyond my comprehension.

We have a resource page that is limited. Without having personally read the books, participated in the webinars and conferences, we will not endorse any resource. 

The vast majority of what we have learned in 2022 involved the transgender conversation. This is an area of experience I am unable to personally identify with or fully understand. The parents and individuals we have spoken with, too, are overwhelmed; "How do I express my concerns without alienating my family member?" "How can I talk to my parents about the constant stress, emotional pain and confusion I have?" "I don't know what to do. My child is angry, will not come to any family gatherings and does not want to have a relationship with us. I can't stop crying."

So we read the books. We participate in the webinars. We attend the conferences if possible. And I am overwhelmed. Opinions and recommendations rapidly change. Adjustments are required on a grand scale. Legislation, mental health, gender-confirmation surgery, and parental support. What is considered harmful or helpful is no longer agreed upon. The terminology and language grows and changes with each passing day. 

What can we do? What do we say? What do we not say? How can we be salt and light in the broken places we find ourselves, knowing we are broken people? We can't. I can't. 

How do we live to reflect a life of a Christ follower in this turning, churning and changing world? For me, the answer is simple and requires intentionality to live in that simplicity. I try to look at in a 3 step plan.

#1. Take my thoughts captive. Think about what I'm thinking about.

#2. Lay down my pride of thinking I can love well on my own. Ask the Holy Sprit to empower me.

#3. "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'" Mt. 22:37,39

How about you? What have you discovered about loving like Christ in the broken place you find yourself?

 We are still learning and welcome your thoughts. Send us an email! ❤️

2coronefour@gmail.com

Scott and Linda on: Jan 19th, 2023 11:05am

Really don't understand how you can deal with all that's going on in your ministry. How blessed we are to have you and Gordie in the ministry God has put you in. I will tell you that we pray for you and your ministry often.

Susan on: Jan 19th, 2023 11:02am

Excellent blog. Those are the exact same questions the ladies in my bible study are grappling with. I'm going to share your blog with them. Thank you!

Becky on: Jan 18th, 2023 08:43am

Very good!

I have discovered that loving people no matter what is hard. And at times, I don't want to love people and in turn, I'm not loving myself either.