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God Has Chosen This for You”- “Really?

SUMMARY The author explores and critiques some Australian quotations often used to purportedly comfort and support people with disabilities, their families and carers. It is contended that these “God is on your side” clichés are, at best, problematic, and, at worst, instill spiritual trauma upon the recipient, as they perpetuate a sense of victimhood and collusion by God in their suffering. In exploring some of the theology and Christian healing narratives which lie behind these clichés, alternative pastoral responses are proposed; such as companionship, nurture and listening within networks of support and friendship. The Australian verandah is used as a metaphor for the ‘in-between place’ where a range of vistas and perspectives, looking both within and beyond, may help to illuminate an appropriate pastoral response.