A United Methodist Pastor's Theological Reflections

"But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory (nikos) through our Lord Jesus Christ." - I Corinthians 15:57


Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Operation Street Smart - The Church & Reaching Out to Those Struggling with Addictions



Our church hosts a weekly AA (Alcholics Anonymous) meeting.  It's an important way for our church to be active in making a difference in our community.  Illegal drug use is becoming an increasing problem in our communities.  There are several families in my congregation who have loved ones who are destroying their lives because of problems with addiction.  It's heart-breaking. 

I am so thankful for a couple members here at Lancaster First UMC who have taken the lead in bringing an excellent program, "Operation Street Smart" to our community.  It will be held on Saturday, December 3 at the Fairfield Medical Center. 

Recently, I met with someone in the church who is seeking support and guidance in knowing what to do regarding an adult family member who is taking drugs.  It's a sad story of how their family member is not only destroying his life but also deeply hurting his family emotionally and financially.

Here's a prayer that I pray each week on Tuesdays.  I prayed it again today.  It's a prayer for those who struggle with addictions.  What I like about this prayer is that it also remembers those who work with people who have addictions.  They definitely need our prayers, too!  Here's the prayer:


Blessed Lord, you ministered to all who came to you: Look with compassion upon all who through addiction have lost their health and freedom. Restore to them the assurance of your unfailing mercy; remove from them the fears that beset them; strengthen them in the work of their recovery; and to those who care for them, give patient understanding and persevering love. Amen.
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