Have You Seen the Shack?

By far one of my favorite movies of all time is The Shack. Adapted from the novel by William P. Young, it’s about a man named Mack who had a very abusive childhood.  But he didn’t let that stop him from becoming a devoted husband and father. One day, while he and his family are camping, his daughter goes missing. Mack couldn’t help but think that this was some sort of punishment for his sins as a child. Then Mack receives a letter in the mail for an invitation to a place referred to as the shack.  When he arrives to an empty shack, he is led by a mysterious being to a trio that refer to themselves as God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. This begins a journey of acceptance, healing, transformation, and forgiveness within the heart of Mack.

I relate to Mack in so many ways. I had a similar childhood of abuse and being tossed around within the foster care system. All I felt during that entire period of my life was fear and sadness. I also struggled with immense guilt as a child. I was constantly wondering what I did wrong.

But also like Mack, I had a spiritual experience that opened my eyes and heart to Jesus. I’ll never forget the warm summer day that my foster mother took me outside on the porch and explained to me about this person named Jesus. I had so many questions! The things I learned about God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and the true meaning of being a believer ended up changing my life forever.

I might not ever understand my past and why I had to experience such trauma as a child, but one thing I know for sure is that God was with me through it all. Even before I knew who He was! He was with me then and He is with me now. Like Mack, I can choose to make peace with what was unfair and that helps me press on.

My faith has taught me that I have a life worth living and if you are reading this, you do too. No matter what you are struggling with right now, you have a purpose and value just by being you.