(Sensitive Content Warning)

In our final episode of the Summer Stories mini-series, my friend Jodi bravely shares her story of overcoming the shame of sexual abuse. She was abused by her teacher at a Christian school, who later went on to plant and pastor churches, but her message is one of hope, healing from God, and the power of empathic community. She describes how she "buried" her trauma for decades, but how the Lord graciously began "unburying" and bringing the truth to the light. 

Our God graciously brings what has been kept in the dark into the light, for our healing, for our freedom, and for his glory. 

Emotional healing and freedom from shame do not happen quickly, but God faithfully gives us all that we need for the long journey. Listeners are encouraged to link arms with one another, and most importantly to look to the one, true Healer- Jesus Christ. 

Recommended Resources:

Diane Langberg, PhD- https://www.dianelangberg.com/

Wade Mullen- https://wadetmullen.com/ (Jodi's story on his blog here: https://wadetmullen.com/jodis-story-of-surviving-sexual-abuse/)

Justin Holcomb- https://justinholcomb.com/bio/  especially his book: "Rid of My Disgrace: Hope and Healing for Victims of Sexual Assault"