Troubled Minds: Mental Illness and the Church’s Mission - Amy Simpson

The mentally ill wear stigma like a scarlet letter, but Christ can make it a badge of honor.

Troubled Minds: Mental Illness and the Church’s Mission

Author: Amy Simpson

Publisher: IVP Books (www.ivpress.com)

Pages: 221

Troubled Minds by Amy Simpson was a must read. My on and off relationship with Dave, who suffers from mental illness, left me looking for help. Relating to troubled minds is rewarding, but it can also be frustrating and draining. This book did not disappoint as a reference and guide on a subject that has often been neglected and misunderstood by the church. This goes a long way towards bringing clarity and wisdom.

The author is more than a researcher presenting her findings. She shares openly about her mother’s battle with mental illness and how it affected her family. It is troubling to read how her mom, a pastor’s wife, turned from her faith and wound up on the streets before being incarcerated. When you read accounts like this, or when I think of Christians who have Alzheimer’s, perplexing questions begin to multiply. How does this relate to God’s promise to keep and care for his children? Why must this be? What will be the outcome?

Fortunately, I kept reading. Simpson’s family story does not end badly. The author succeeds in providing a comprehensive overview of this subject from a Christian perspective. The wisdom found in these pages will be a source of comfort for those who struggle and for those who serve a population that is underserved.

I came away with greater compassion, which is no small accomplishment. I like how Matthew 9:36 in the King James Version speaks of Jesus, “But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.” Christ was moved with compassion. When you catch in these pages a glimpse of the harassed and helpless, who may be like sheep without a shepherd, don’t be surprised if the Spirit of Christ moves you with compassion.

One of the rewards of this book is seeing what the church should be in relation to the mentally ill. Simpson often shows where we fall short, but she does not browbeat. She instructs out of the compassion born of experience and learning.

It would be helpful if at least one member of every ministerial staff could read this book and be familiar with the contents. I recommend it for every church and theological library. It points the way forward for the church to do better. It also provides resource information for those wanting to start a ministry to the mentally ill.

They wear stigma like a scarlet letter, but Christ can make it a badge of honor. I saw this with my friend, Dave, who asked me to write his testimony (see the article at the end of this review). Even though he liked what I wrote, he was fearful of being associated with it. He wants others to know what Christ has done, but disclosures like this often lead to the mentally ill being judged and ostracized, even in the church.   

When asked what this book is about, I mentioned in the presence of a non-Christian that it is an encouragement for the church to reach out to the mentally ill including the depressed. In reply, she remarked, “That’s good because a depressed person is not going to come to you.” Although that may be true, change is possible. This book contains stories and testimonies of churches that have successful ministries that are like magnets attracting the mentally ill. People are drawn to the supportive atmosphere.

The author is careful to point out that the church should not expect a quick fix for those who suffer in this way. This involves a long term commitment. Too often someone who does not get better in a few weeks, months or years may experience subtle rejection. Someone with this disease may struggle for a lifetime. It may be more realistic to think in terms of management rather than cure. It’s not enough to just refer people to specialists. The mentally ill need the support that only the church can provide.

This book shows that mental illness is more widespread than most people realize. It’s an overlooked ministry that is challenging but rewarding for all concerned. For those interested in the possibilities, this book is a fine starting place.  

Michael Dalton

Crazy for God! (David’s testimony)

Crazy for God! You may laugh or think me foolish, but since 1977 I have been mentally ill.  It’s a stigma I often bear, but Christ has turned it into a badge of honor. I don’t have to be ashamed. Mental illness is not a moral failure.

It was a trait that I inherited, and my home life was far from ideal. I witnessed promiscuity; my dad took me to an x-rated movie when I was only 16. But it was being rejected by a woman that triggered manic-depression and schizophrenia.

Since then many people have come and gone. I have seen the inside of hospitals and psychiatric wards. I am misunderstood and rejected even by other Christians. Although I should be able to find a place in a church, I still find myself searching to connect with people.

But this is what makes Jesus so precious to me. Since I trusted Him in 1975, he has never left me. Even more, he has given me a heart to share the good news that all may come to him for forgiveness and freedom. Who would guess that Christ would give me a ministry of evangelism?

I have lived in many places over the years. Everywhere I go I tell people about Jesus. I have given away hundreds of tracts, and I ever long for fellowship with God’s people. How many are fortunate to have that kind of love?

God put it there. His Son was no stranger to rejection. He knew scorn and abuse. When dying, after being nailed to a cross, he prayed “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34 ESV). Though I express it imperfectly, this is the love that God has given me. Though others may mistreat or forsake me, I keep reaching out.

Though I have wanted to marry, at least for now, Christ has given me the gift of celibacy. The 40-year-old virgin has nothing on me. I have been one for over 55 years. It’s been a struggle at times, but even when I feel lonely or discouraged, Christ stands beside me.

He’s the friend that walks in when everyone else walks out. He picks me up when I fall. He’s given me a love for the Scriptures. His Word is a continual comfort and makes me feel like I have a treasure that many people know nothing about.

I am not crazy, just crazy for God. It’s why you are reading this article. I want you to know the God who will love you no matter what. Just turn from going your own way and entrust your life to Christ. As Christian recording artist Evie sang in an old song, “Live for Jesus, that’s what matters/that you see the light in me and come along.”

David

Amy Grant - How Mercy Looks from Here

If we could only see, how it might change our perspective.

How Mercy Looks from Here

Artist: Amy Grant

Label: Capitol Christian Music Group

Length: 11 tracks/42 minutes

Scottish minister Robert Murray McCheyne said, “If I could hear Christ praying for me in the next room, I would not fear a million enemies. Yet distance makes no difference. He is praying for me: ‘He ever liveth to make intercession.’” On How Mercy Looks from Here, Amy Grant applies a similar thought on “If I Could See (What the Angels See)”: “If I could see what the angels see/behind the walls to you and me/and let the truth set me free/I’d live this life differently.” This is the first of several songs that provoke listeners to look behind what is seen to the unseen. The eyes of faith see their inheritance in Christ, and it’s not just future. Time and distance make no difference. If we can only see, how it might change our perspective. How we might live differently.

The bruised reed and the smoldering wick will find compassion and solace. This is especially the case on “Don’t Try So Hard,” which includes harmony vocals from James Taylor. The song exudes the rest that Jesus promised the weary. If I could only have one song, this is it!

Guest appearances also include Carole King supplying harmony vocals on the snappy, whimsical “Our Time is Now.” Time rushes on; “let us sing before our time runs out.”

Sheryl Crow and Eric Paslay trade lines with Grant on the gospel-tinged “Deep as it is Wide.” This takes a stirring look at what awaits the faithful.

I was eager to hear Grant collaborate with some of the artists that she has admired. A slight disappointment is having Taylor and King only harmonizing. I would have enjoyed hearing them sing a few words on their own, but I am glad for their contribution. I would like to see more Christian artists collaborating with mainstream artists. It can be beneficial to everyone, and surely God’s heart is to draw people together.

The music leans toward acoustic pop with a hint of country. Whether acoustic or electric, the guitar work is excellent. At least in part, credit goes to husband Vince Gill, whose presence is felt here in a way similar to previous releases.

Grant’s songwriting is always a strength, and it’s lovely on this CD. The somewhat rustic, laid-back music fits well with the homespun sentiments. The honesty, affirmation and love mirror the kind of support often found in recovery groups. At the same time, it is also sobering and wistful. This does not have the fanfare of earlier work, but I find it more rewarding. If the former had flashes of excitement, this is more like settled peace. This could easily become my favorite of all Grant’s recordings.

Jesus, Firm Foundation: Hymns of Worship

Remakes hymns for a new generation just as 2^nd Chapter of Acts did many years ago

Jesus, Firm Foundation: Hymns of Worship

Various Artists

Label: Provident

Length: 12 tracks/51:09 minutes

When the 2^nd Chapter of Acts released Hymns (1986), it became their best-selling release and received a Dove Award for “Best Praise and Worship Album of the Year” in 1987. It set the bar high for the many similar recordings that followed. What makes it somewhat unique is that it appealed to fans of both pop and inspirational music.

Now come with me to 2013 and the release of Jesus, Firm Foundation: Hymns of Worship. A number of popular artists take turns creatively remaking a classic hymn. The appeal is clearly for those who like pop/rock. Guitars are in the forefront, and those looking for more traditional interpretations are better served elsewhere. Even so, each artist is respectful of the material; in particular, when words are added to create a bridge or chorus where none existed. Purists might not like this idea, but it modernizes and adds a new element. This succeeds from start to finish in making a classic sound fresh. 

It opens strongly with Mike Donehey (Tenth Avenue North), Steven Curtis Chapman, Mark Hall (Casting Crowns) and Mandisa trading vocals on “Jesus, Firm Foundation.” It works so well that I wonder if the release could have been benefited from other collaborations. As it is, each of the other hymns is handled by a separate artist.

As much as I might enjoy the resurrection of obscure but lyrically rich texts, this is a collection of widely-known standards. These artists are building on a firm foundation.

Aside from enjoying hymn releases, I wanted to review this for the opportunity of hearing Nichole Nordeman, who has not had a studio release of new material since Brave (2005). Most likely, she has been busy with parenting. She, Matt Maher (who continues to rise in my estimation) and Chris Stevens wrote a full set of stanzas to Turn Your Eyes upon Jesus. This will especially appeal to those who feel somewhat shattered by the world (who doesn’t at times?). The lyrics repeatedly encourage listeners to turn in their brokenness to Christ. Song writing has always been one of Nordeman’s strengths, and she does not disappoint, even if the music is not as compelling. I hope she continues to enrich us with her gifts.

Michael W. Smith packs several songs worth of creativity into “All Hail the Power of Jesus Name.” This is an effective blend of styles, which showcases his skill as a composer and arranger without taking away from the song. Kari Jobe’s singing is just right on “Be Still My Soul (In You I Trust),” which makes me want to discover more of her music. The power in the original lines remains undiminished.

One of the most interesting arrangements is “Nothing but the Blood,” by Andy Cherry. It is clearly informed by the new folk sound (Mumford & Sons immediately comes to mind). It closes with a brief instrumental segment, which is my favorite part.

It would be easy to comment further on the rest of the recording. Suffice it to say that this is worth getting if you want to experience the richness of hymns in a modern setting. Like 2^nd Chapter’s Hymns, it shows the value of remaking classic songs.

Anthems - Todd Ballard

Electric guitar may be anathema in some circles; it serves a higher purpose here.

Anthems

Artist: Todd Ballard (www.toddballard.com)

Label: Independent/Distribution by New Day Christian Distributors

Length: 13 tracks/54:30 minutes

I hope “guitar-hero” doesn’t have negative connotations. That’s what comes to mind when I listen to Anthems by Todd Ballard.

These are not anthems sung by a congregation. They may be adaptable for that purpose, but it does not matter. I relish stumbling across worship that sounds fresh. It comes from an individual that has an obvious passion for guitar rock. It’s even clear from the packaging. It twice depicts him with his axe, once hanging low by his side as he gazes pensively toward the distance. He’s like a gunslinger, firearm at the ready. The inside booklet shows it in action across his torso, his upper body and face not even visible. Electric guitar may be anathema in some circles; it serves a higher purpose here.

If you like rock but find much of modern worship less than satisfying, give this a try. It shows that subtle differences can add new vitality. This is unashamedly guitar-driven -- clean, tight and rugged -- with a little matching grit in the vocals. I could hear a little of John Schlitt (Petra) in the delivery. The lyrics lean toward singer/songwriter, and there is none of the tiresome repetition of phrases.

In contrast to the more aggressive sound, some piano-driven songs, which include strings, are gorgeous. Ballard, with the help of producer Otto Price, does all things well on this recording.

This includes a remake of “Find Me in the River,” the Delirious song. It segues seamlessly into “The One,” making the former like a beautiful prologue ushering one from the barren to the heights.

I would not have guessed that I would be so taken with a recording that had electric guitar in the forefront. Vertically-focused albums often fail to move me, so it took me by surprise when I found myself caught up in worship by the last track, “Psalm 18.” I was led along by a flow of songs that culminated in this magnificent offering of praise. It concludes with a majestic, Dave Bainbridge-like solo. Like Bainbridge, Ballard uses his instrument to glorify God. He shows a mastery that includes the restraint to know what not to play. Such control makes it seem as though his guitar is singing praises.

Anthems is evidence that guitar-driven rock can not only be a vehicle for passionate praise but majestic worship.   

Nothing is Wasted (2-Disc Deluxe Edition) - Elevation Worship

Spontaneous applause of a glorious truth is a moment to savor

Nothing is Wasted (2-Disc Deluxe Edition)

Artist: Elevation Worship (www.elevationworship.com)

Label: Essential Worship/Provident

Tracks: 12 songs each disc plus bonus track “Give Me Faith (Radio Version)”

What a pleasant surprise to discover that “Be Lifted High,” a song introduced at my church a couple of weeks ago is the second song on this CD. It’s a catchy song, whose source is Elevation Worship, a part of Elevation Church in Charlotte, NC.

The songs correspond to Greater, a book written by Steven Furtick, the church’s pastor. The book derives its inspiration from the life of Elisha. The songs are more general touching on discipleship and furthering the kingdom and glory of God. One need not read the book to enjoy the CD.

This is in the style of Hillsong, Passion and Jesus Culture. Think modern rock transitioning at times to quiet interludes then building to a crescendo. Male and female singers alternate on lead vocals. The former get the lion’s share, which is unfortunate given the quality of the female-led songs.

There is an excited charismatic declaration/prayer at the end of “Nothing is Wasted.” Who can fault being enthusiastic in worship? Hopefully, listeners will hear it as just one of many possible expressions. Surely, there is also a place for quiet and even dignified utterances.

A brief scripture reading followed by a prayer comes closer to this in the remake of the classic, “I Have Decided.” Even here, towards the end, the speaker becomes more ecstatic. What I found more enjoyable were moments of spontaneous applause that erupt in reaction to a truth being sung. Most notably, this happens after the end of some lines in “Unchanging God”: “The world will pass away/But the Word of the Lord stands forever.” It’s a moment to savor.

This is one of only two female-led songs. I would have enjoyed more of the tranquility found in their songs and in “I Have Decided.” I wonder if modern worship tries too hard to be relevant instead of just being whatever God wants it to be with all its varied expressions. An infusion of more originality would bring some much-needed uniqueness. It would be exciting if we were leading the culture instead of following it. Following God’s lead regardless of the cost is what “I Have Decided” is all about.

This CD is likeable, but it succumbs at times to the clichés and the monotony that are too prevalent in this genre. It fails to significantly distinguish itself aside from being a quality recording that comes with studio versions of the same songs with subtle differences. 

Old Light: Songs from my Childhood & Other Gone Worlds - Rayna Gellert

The influence of memory on songs old and new

Old Light: Songs from my Childhood & Other Gone Worlds

Artist: Rayna Gellert (www.raynagellert.com)

Label: StorySound Records

Length: 41:01 minutes

When it comes to murder ballads, I am traversing unfamiliar territory. Sad songs are a different matter. Songs like “Eleanor Rigby” have always resonated. Old Light contains a little of both, which is a reflection of Rayna Gellert’s childhood.

But this is more than just five traditional songs made new. There are five original songs, which touch on the theme of memory.

“The Platform,” caught my attention as I thought of it in terms of someone describing what it feels like to experience Alzheimer’s and/or dementia. The first person account makes it unique: “My writings in the margins/Of all these books that I’ve read/How could all those ideas just fall out of my head.” Original songs like this one have a poetic imagery that is more accessible to me than the traditional ones.

Even so, the craftsmanship on all the songs is a thing of beauty. The gorgeous instrumentation, including the occasional melancholy pedal steel, and the picking of stringed instruments, led by Nathan Salsburg, give this a rustic and rural feel that is ever so welcome.

Salsburg also serves with Gellert as an arranger on every track. This is a wonderful collaboration.

Listening to this CD reminded me of George Harrison’s fondness for The Band. It had something to do with the timeless quality and the organic sound of their songs. Their songs sounded old. Old Light feels even more stripped-down and authentic. The new songs sound old, and the old songs have a newness. Each one is expertly performed. A couple of murder ballads are appropriately ominous.

As faulty as memory may be, I have it on good authority that Gellert is a past performer with Uncle Earl. She is an established fiddle player, but here she makes modest use of that talent, choosing to let the arrangements dictate the instruments.

Her background includes gospel songs, and though this includes a few spiritual references, it would be a treat to hear this group of musicians work their magic on some old hymns.

Michael Card - A Violent Grace: Meeting Christ at the Cross (Book & CD)

Inspiring meditations on the cross of Christ for any time of the year

A Violent Grace: Meeting Christ at the Cross (Book & CD)

Author & Artist: Michael Card

Publisher: IVP Books (www.ivpress.com) & Covenant Artists

Length: 182 pages & 16 tracks/60.08 minutes

Whenever my reading takes me to the crucifixion account, I sense that it will add a wonderful solemnity to my life. I have no fear of it making me morbid. Rather, I imagine it making me more fit for the daily grind. It puts my trials in perspective. As the author of Hebrews writes, “In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood” (Heb. 12:4 ESV).

The different glimpses that I get of Christ’s sufferings make A Violent Grace possibly my favorite of Michael Card’s books. Each of the 21 brief chapters focuses on a different aspect of what Christ accomplished through the cross. Each thought on the subject sets up a contrast, beginning with He was born to die, so I could be born to new life.

If you are familiar with Card’s music, you know that his songs are informed by insights gleaned from Scripture. It’s no different with his books. It’s the little details, background information and insightful reflections that make this rewarding.

Reading one chapter a day, I finished the last one on Easter morning, which was entirely appropriate. I want to quickly add, this is worth reading any time of the year, regardless of where we are in the church calendar. Being in touch with these momentous events throughout our days will help us to live in light of them.

Card’s closing thoughts in the last chapter confirm and echo an application made by mature Christians:

Jesus dies a slave’s death on the cross, not so He could somehow ‘lord it over’ His disciples. He suffered to serve. He endured the humiliation because that is what servants do (180).

Obeying. Suffering. Serving. Christ left us an example to follow. A watching world will note this kind of life more than one that asserts itself, finds self-fulfillment, or attains that which is highly esteemed by our culture.

This book is the product of an ongoing relationship with IVP Books, which started with a commentary series on the gospels that is still in process. With every commentary, and with this book, Card has produced a companion CD of music reflecting the book’s theme. The book and CD are separate purchases.

I was surprised to discover that A Violent Grace CD is a live recording. I imagined Card reworking a number of his songs on the cross in the studio. This does include a number of Card’s past songs, but here they have a timeless quality because the only accompaniment is Card on piano (occasionally guitar) a choir and strings. I see the wisdom of letting lyric and melody be heard in a pristine setting. There’s no production that will date this anytime soon.   

This resurrects such Card classics as “Know by the Scars,” “Why,” “This Must be the Lamb,” and “Love Crucified Arose.” This also includes the hymn “O Sacred Head” as well as some new material.

Each track is meticulously arranged and performed with the attention to detail characteristic of Card. The depth in the lyrics and softer sounds make this ideal for considering again what Christ did in dying and rising from the grave.

The subject matter along with the beauty and excellence might provide solace for those who are afflicted. I find the “Death of a Son,” a mournful lament that includes cello, strangely comforting. Christ’s agony gives meaning to our own suffering. As much pain as we might experience, Christ’s triumph means that it is not the end. Suffering and death do not have the last word.

Love crucified arose
And the grave became a place of hope
For the heart that sin and sorrow broke
Is beating once again

Michael Dalton