Embracing Our Humanity

The Power of Feelings, Faith, and Community

Recently, I had the wonderful opportunity to reconnect with childhood friends—some I hadn’t seen in nearly 50 years. Growing up in a small town where everyone knew each other fostered a deep sense of community and connection. During that reunion, I was reminded how important it is to truly feel our emotions and to appreciate the authentic bonds we share.

This experience resonated with the message from our community conversation, “Faith and Feelings: Embracing Our Humanity,” which emphasizes the importance of embracing our emotions with grace. When we allow ourselves to feel—whether joy, sadness, anger, or fear—we open the door to healing and growth. Emotions are complex, often layered, and deeply woven into our life stories. Recognizing primary emotions helps us understand what we’re experiencing in the moment, while secondary emotions reveal how we interpret those feelings over time.

Feeling our emotions fully is not just a personal practice—it’s a spiritual one. Trusting that God has a divine purpose for every season of our lives aligns with Ecclesiastes 3:1-8: “To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.” Our feelings serve a purpose; they guide us, reveal our needs, and open us to divine insight.

However, it's important to remember that, as Jeremiah 17:9 says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?” This verse highlights that our human emotions and thoughts can sometimes lead us astray—causing confusion, false narratives, or misguided perceptions. It’s a reminder that while feelings are sacred and valuable, they must be discerned and aligned with God’s truth. Emotions, when unchecked, can deceive us, but when brought before God in prayer and reflection, they can lead us to deeper understanding and reliance on His wisdom.

Healing, both individually and collectively, flourishes in community. When we share our authentic feelings—whether through conversation, prayer, or simply being present—we foster understanding, compassion, and trust. Community provides a safe space where vulnerability is strengthened and acceptance is felt. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles or joys.

Embracing our humanity means accepting that feelings are natural and sacred part of our journey, but also recognizing the importance of aligning those feelings with God’s truth. It encourages us to reflect, pray, journal, and seek understanding through God’s grace. By feeling our feelings, discerning them with spiritual wisdom, and connecting with others, we find healing, purpose, and deeper faith.

As we move forward, let’s continue to nurture our emotional and spiritual well-being—honoring our feelings, trusting in God’s divine timing, and building community that uplifts and sustains us in every season of life.

Thank you for meeting me here!

Anna Laura!

FYI: Mark your calendar and join us on July 21st at 7pm for the next “Faith And Feelings” community conversation! Remember you must register on the site pop-up, and opt-in @al-woods.com to receive the Zoom link. And if you have already registered and opted-in you will automatically receive the link!

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I had the wonderful time reconnecting with childhood friends—some I hadn’t seen in nearly 50 year!

Class of 1975: 2025 Class Reunion -Classmates and Life Long Friends,

Whatt a Blessings!