Recognize The Wound
When I was a child, the sights and sounds of Christmas were exciting for me. I loved winter, and still do. Even though the thought of receiving a gift was exciting, gathering with my family and watching the change in people throughout the season filled my heart and made a lasting impression with me that has stayed with me as I grew older. It seemed like, for a moment, the joy and love of Christ filled the hearts of people which gave others a measure of hope when going through difficult situations because they saw firsthand the love of Christ working through people. I sometimes still think “why can’t this last all year long?”
As I got older and lived life, I understood how difficult it can be to have that joyous feeling, even at Christmas time, when we are dealing with difficult situations. It wasn’t until I went through some of those difficult situations did I understand how someone can feel anxious, depressed, lonely, fearful, worried and even angry. Sometimes we are struggling with illness, financial difficulties/job loss, family/marriage problems, loss of a loved one or mistreatment by others. Sometimes it could even be thoughts of something that happened long ago that we can’t let go of. These emotions, if not dealt with, can turn into bitterness, hate, or lead to addiction. For some, they feel stuck, like there is no way out, and decide to end their life. Though these are not happy thoughts to read (or write) about, it may help us to be aware of those around us when we see others who are struggling or are unhappy. What we are seeing in their anger, fear, depression, or anxiety is pain, and like an infected wound that has not been treated, that wound within the heart can run deep and the pain can be unbearable and the worries can seem endless.
But praise God we have a righteous King, Jesus, who can heal the wounds and take care of our problems! He is our healer:
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. (Psalm 147:3)
He is our Counselor:
6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)
And He wants you to hand over your burdens and concerns so you can have that joy and peace He promises to give:
28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)
If you are struggling at this time, what is stopping you from turning your heart and problems over to Christ? It only takes a moment to sit with Him and bring it before Him, admitting you can’t handle this alone and then trust that He will help you.
If you know someone who is struggling, it only takes a moment to pray for that person every time you think of them and continue reminding them when you see them that we have a Savior that will help them and heal them if they put their trust in Him.
Today, turn it all over to Christ. Today, be that light in someone’s darkness and bring Christ into their situation.