"Healer" Exposed

I’m certainly not the first to blog about the recent disclosure of the fraudulent testimony of “Healer’s” author Michael Guglielmucci, one of the contributors on the new Hillsong Worship album, “This is Our God.” But I figured I would add my thoughts nonetheless. A few days ago, I briefly mentioned the song “Healer” and the incredible story behind the song. Unfortunately, it seems that the whole story was made up by writer Michael Guglielmucci, and he did not in fact have terminal cancer. You can read the whole story here and here.

As I was thinking through my reaction to this unfortunate lie this guy was living, I basically came up with two thoughts. One, this is a trainwreck situation, to be sure. Obviously there are some mental issues this guy is facing right now. And there are thousands around the globe who have been relying on this guy and his song for encouragement as they face their own battles with terminal illnesses or whatever the case may be. So, I’m reminded of the incredible responsibility of us, men and women of God, to understand that there are people watching our lives and to strive to be truth-tellers. To live the truth. That we wouldn’t make a mockery of God and gospel by the way we live our lives.

However, my second thought lends itself to more grace than judgment. I’m a broken vessel. You’re a broken vessel. Michael is a broken vessel. We’re all broken vessels. The fact that the story behind the song was totally fabricated doesn’t make the song any less true–the truth that God is a healer–that He’s in the business of healing souls and lives. And though the testimony of this particular individual is untrue, the reality that God still heals is definitely not up for debate. Whatever the motivation was for this fabrication, God has still received glory from a song that speaks to His character and praises Him for it. So, I’m thankful that God still uses broken vessels for His use–not matter how badly broken they may be. I think the Apostle Paul said it best in Philippians 1:15-18 concerning motivations for preaching the gospel:

So, pray for Michael. According the article, he’s seeking professional help, which I think could be a good thing. But definitely don’t waste your time praying that God will figure out a way to clean up the mess and carnage. He wasn’t taken by surprise by this. He’s totally in control and sovereign over this situation and He’ll receive glory from it. No doubt.