This post is the second post in a series on The Power of Story. Today’s post focuses on truth and how we can get defensive about simple aspects of story–such as the meaning of “truth”.
“This is My truth” is a common phrase that has been used for the last couple years. There are normally several responses to this phrase and they usually are not healthy. One response is to get defensive and be ready to fight. This is a favorite defense mechanism in the Church as we somehow think arguing people into the Kingdom is a great idea. (Note: Look at the Gospels. Jesus never had to argue someone into the Kingdom). The stance taken in this argument is to downplay someone’s saying of “my truth” and replace it with “Jesus is the truth”. The issue with this you are not understanding why that person is saying “my truth”.
“My truth” is someone’s sharing of their story and what they have endured. Has it been overused sometimes in our culture? Yes, greatly! However, when someone shares their experience (especially in regards to trauma), telling them that “only Jesus is the truth” can be a little over the top. Jesus is the truth; however, this is something that a Jesus follower adheres to. And when someone shares “their truth”, they are not saying that Jesus is not the truth. They are simply stating their experience, perspective, trauma, etc–and how it has shaped them.
So in your story, how do you handle “truth”?
- Get in the Word. Spend time getting to know Jesus and who he is.
- Write down things that have happened to you that would deem as traumatic.
- Review the traumatic things that have happened to you. Remember this, each event could involve pain due to the actions of others, yourself, or a mix of both. Own what is your responsibility. Grieve the wound.
- Forgive the other person – in person or in your heart. It will set you free.
- Remind yourself daily that your story and God’s story intertwine and to be mindful of where you are seeking truth from–aka: the news, social media, political allegiances, etc.
Java and Jesus 