Counseling in the Already, Not Yet: Reflections on the Work of the Christian Counselor Through an Eschatological Lens
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2021
Abstract
French, Haley Rae (2021) "Counseling in the Already, Not Yet: Reflections on the Work of the Christian Counselor Through an Eschatological Lens," Spiritus: ORU Journal of Theology: Vol. 6 : No. 2: 263-84
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, this article reflects on the work of the Christian counselor through an eschatological lens, specifically exploring the notion of what it means to counsel in the “already, not yet.” The counseling process is presented as a place in which the dialectics of this eschatological tension are present and outworked. Pain and suffering are encountered and explored as the counselor stands in solidarity with the sufferer, and yet the Christian counselor also anticipates hope and the power of change in the present, particularly as ushered in by the eschatological Spirit of God. To this end, the author explores three practices, as undertaken by the counselor, that demonstrate a sensitivity and ability to minister effectively in the tension of the already, not yet—companioning, lament, and re-storying.
Recommended Citation
French, Haley R., "Counseling in the Already, Not Yet: Reflections on the Work of the Christian Counselor Through an Eschatological Lens" (2021). College of Theology and Ministry Faculty Research and Scholarship. 12.
https://digitalshowcase.oru.edu/cotm_pub/12
