Wounds and Scars

We tend to judge others by their actions, and ourselves by our intentions, but when we hurt someone, the effect is the same regardless. (I am definitely guilty of this!) Saying you're sorry is the first step, but healing takes time, and once the damage is repaired, there may be a scar that remains. Healing will happen on its own, but as with a physical injury, there are efforts we can make to speed up the process, keep the wound from getting infected due to additional exposure, as well as minimize the scar left behind. The deeper and more severe the wound, the more intensive the treatment that will be required. Just sticking a band aid on it by saying we are sorry is not being very proactive on our part when someone we love has been hurt. And, if you have ever had a significant scar from an injury, you know that even once it's healed, the area is still sensitive or numb when touched, and will never be the same. We may not be able to see emotional wounds, but they are every bit as real, and require tender care to get better. As the person responsible for their injury, (whether intended or not) if we are patient and sensitive to their needs, pretty soon our relationship will experience restoration. After all, if we truly love them, especially in the way Christ calls us to, they should be worth our time and effort. Remember the kindness of Christ toward hurting people...He was sensitive enough to first be aware of it, and in response, be caring enough to do something about it. ♥