CATHARSIS

I Was Just Thinking About – CATHARSIS.

The original medical usage of catharsis in English (1872) was concerned with one’s emotions. By extension, it has also come to mean: to purify, purge; clear of shame or guilt. The intent was for a person to be returned to normalcy and to be better able to cope with life’s details as they unfold. Emotional considerations are difficult to release. It is especially difficult with interpersonal relationships, such as abuse by or the unfaithfulness of a loved spouse; a rebellious child who does not submit to reason or discipline; the death of a loved one, especially a child. These and a host of other considerations can and will impact one emotionally. Many times it will include guilt and regret. Did one make the best and wisest choices? Could the guilt-laden or sorrowing person have done anything differently that would’ve gained a better result?

As I think about catharsis, I also think about the times Scripture is quoted and applied glibly (often thoughtlessly; superficially; insincerely). How often has Romans 8:28 been partially quoted while the rest of the verse and Romans 8:29 is omitted? How often has Jeremiah 29:11 been used (most of the time out of context)? When dealing with the crises of life and wondering why they are happening, has Isaiah 64:8 come to mind? The words of the prophet are: “And yet, O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter. We are all formed by your hand.” Overall, it is easy to use Jeremiah 29:11, but it is not always followed through with fitting one’s life into the Lord’s plan for it. It is also easier to express Romans 8:28 generally, but much more difficult to conceive that all things work together for good…for those who are called according to His purpose. It is easy to find agreement that God is the potter and His people are the clay, but it is somewhat difficult to believe and apply Psalm 143:10, “Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God. May Your good Spirit lead me on level ground.” The verse also implies that one is willing to accept God’s will as He molds one into that which He wants one to be.

The Hymn, Like A River Glorious (Frances R. Havergal - 1876), reminds one of the sovereignty of God in all matters of life. Stanzas 2 and 3 share a great Biblical truth:

Hidden in the hollow of His blessed hand,

Never foe can follow, never traitor stand;

Not a surge of worry, not a shade of care,

Not a blast of hurry touch the spirit there.

Every joy or trial falleth from above,

Traced upon our dial by the Sun of Love;

We may trust Him fully all for us to do.

They who trust Him wholly find Him wholly true.

Refrain

Stayed upon Jehovah, hearts are fully blest

Finding, as He promised, perfect peace and rest.

The conclusions that must be reached in the life of a Biblical Christian include: God genuinely cares for His people (I Peter 5:7); God is able to do much for than one can ask, think or imagine (Ephesians 3:20); God does have a perfect plan that He is performing (Jeremiah 29:11); the plan of God will always be for one’s good (Romans 8:28); and the relevancy of the words of assurance in Psalm 37:23-24 (NIV), “The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.”

Frances R. Havergal also wrote the words to a Hymn that one should attempt to sing from within often. Three of the stanzas contain words of confidence and assurance.

I am trusting Thee to guide me;

Thou alone shalt lead;

Every day and hour supplying

All my need.

I am trusting Thee for power,

Thine can never fail;

Words which Thou Thyself shalt give me

Must prevail.

I am trusting Thee, Lord Jesus;

Never let me fall;

I am trusting Thee forever,

And for all.

Prayerfully – consider these things with me!