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Breaking the Silence
Many mental health experts warn that we are facing a growing crisis of isolation, depression, and anxiety; yet mental health disorders are still something we often avoid discussing. So many of our neighbors, friends, and family quietly struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, or other forms of mental distress while trying to keep smiling and moving through daily life. Often we fear that speaking openly about our own struggles—or looking too closely at someone else’s—will force us to confront our own.
Sunday’s Gospel story gives us a powerful picture of what happens when someone refuses to remain silent. A Gentile mother approaches Jesus, pleading for healing for her daughter who has a demon. The disciples want Jesus to dismiss her: “Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us.” Her desperation disrupts their sanctuary of polite company.
In the ancient world, the word “demon” was often used to describe illnesses and behaviors that people didn't understand. Today, we have much better language and knowledge about mental health, but the stigma remains. We may no longer believe that mental illness is caused by an evil spirit, yet we can still fear, avoid, or misunderstand those who are suffering.
The mother in this story reminds us that silence is not the answer. She refuses to let her daughter’s suffering be ignored, and ultimately Jesus crosses boundaries to respond with compassion and healing. Her courage challenges us to do the same.
We are all, at times, lost and hurting, needing God’s blessing and our community to see and hear us as beloved children of God. May we never be so concerned with being a “polite society” that we fail to be the Church—a community where brokenness is welcomed, suffering is heard, and Christ’s love is made visible.
Blessings,
Rev Jill
In Case You Missed It:
If you missed church last week or would like to hear it again,
here is Rev Jill's sermon from August 2nd:
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