Seven Years

Seven years ago today I was ready to take my life. I’ve written about it many times (HERE, and HERE are the most recent).

I’m in a pretty good place, from a mental health point of view.  I have an excellent counselor, my medication seems to be pretty stable, and I have a loving and supportive family and church.  I haven’t found a father confessor that’s less than 100 miles from me yet, but otherwise I feel like all of the various pieces are as in place as they are likely to get.  For this I am very thankful.  

What always strikes me, as this day comes around, is how many there are who suffer with depression, despair, bipolar disorder, and so many other diseases and maladies both physical, emotional and spiritual.  Just yesterday I was contacted by three different people about their trials with mental illness.  I had only met one of them beforehand.  Sadly, these sorts of days are not that uncommon.

Our Lord’s death for our salvation was nearly 2000 years ago, and the world continues to be remade by His death and resurrection.  But it is still a sorry, broken world.  More than anything else, we need to hear and receive the healing balm of the Gospel, and we must continue to learn how to give of ourselves to one another.  I speak to myself as much as to my readers.

Know again, friends, that Christ is here for you.  He suffers for you, dies for you, and rises for you.  Rejoice in His salvation, no matter how dark the road may be.  You are never alone.

-DMR

(a.k.a. Pastor Todd Peperkorn)

 

6 thoughts on “Seven Years”

  1. Pastor Peperkorn,

    I am also a Lutheran pastor who suffers from severe depression. I left the parish this past August because of it. I am currently working on getting better and hopefully back in the parish. I look forward to getting and reading your book. God be with you as you lead your congregation this Holy Week and Easter.

  2. God’s blessings on you and your family. You are in my prayers. I am grateful you had the willingness to speak out on this issue.

  3. It was five years ago for me early this February. One of the things that really helped me this winter was a light box. If any of your readers especially struggle with depression in the winter, it might be a good idea to see if insurance would cover it, or if they could find a good deal.

Leave a Reply to David CochraneCancel reply