It was three weeks before my daughter's wedding. My stomach was in knots. I was filled with dread 
at the thought of my ex-husband coming to walk our daughter down the aisle. We had been divorced for thirty years. I thought I had forgiven him for leaving me and our two children, but anger welled up inside me. I knew that my forgiveness was far from complete. I could not sort it out alone. That's when I sought the help of a Stephen Minister.
A Place For Hope
I knew that a Stephen Minister would not have answers for me, that the answers were within me, but having someone to confide in immediately reduced the pressure and gave me hope. I knew the Stephen Minister would accept me unconditionally and that my story would be held in confidence.
Three Weeks to Peace
My Stephen Minister met with me, listened intently, and prayed with me. She offered to be available whenever I needed to talk. With the assurance that I was not alone, I began this part of my journey. I was stuck and desperately wanted to be free in time for the wedding in three weeks (well, thirty years and three weeks). I read a profound book on forgiveness which gave me a step-by-step formula for forgiving and finding release from my emotional prisons. Each week I discussed what I had learned with my Stephen Minister.
The Mark of Love
God graciously led me through healing and forgiveness for my ex-husband and release for me in time for the wedding. I was able to smile, be gracious to him, and enjoy this special occasion. The availability and care provided by my Stephen Minister, especially knowing that she was praying for me, gave me strength. I knew I was not alone. To me, investing in someone who is struggling and hurting is a high mark of Christian love. My Stephen Minister did that for me and I am grateful. We continue to meet weekly to get to know each other better and to enjoy our friendship, with or without a crisis.
Grateful in Bethany