"By his wounds we are healed" First Peter 2:24b

Once again I find myself unable to sleep, for I feel compelled to jot down the thoughts parading in my brain. I'm sure we all have at one point in our lives been wounded, scraped, cut, or bruised. It seems to be a part of life. I know that I had my share of scraped knees and elbows, cuts, and bruises that come with the active life of a young child. Each of these wounds require attention. They require to be washed, dried, and to be smathered with anti-biotic. Then the entire deal is covered with a bandage and a kiss. Without the cleansing, the wound will not heal... it will develop an infection or leave a scar. The bandage is important because it not only keeps away furthur irritants but also subdues the longing to pick at the scab. Now almost every child I've met will eagerly agree to the bandage and kiss.. but are much more resistant to the cleaning and disinfecting. Properly cared for the wound will heal with little to no rememberance.

There are the wounds that also seem to be universal but the bleeding is not visible. These are the emotional wounds we encounter. They are created through many methods.. harsh words... indifferent attitudes... or criticism. These wounds require a ritual of cleaning and bandaging which is often forgotton. I know I've tried to hide my hurt, ignoring it, and hoping it would just vanish. Or I would let it begin to heal and then pick at the scab exacerbating the problem. This has often left sensitive areas in my heart which others quite unintentionally hurt. It has left me a little hesistant to engage others for fear of further wounds robbing me of the joy and blessings life has to offer. I know just who to run to for healing.. Jesus Christ.

I show these hurts and pains to Jesus.. just as I would run to my mom or dad with my scraped knee. And then I have to let Jesus pour the cleansing hydrogen peroxide of the soul on my heart so that it can heal. Sometimes this can be just as unpleasant as hydrogen peroxide is to a child.... it typically requires forgiveness of the one who caused the hurt. But after it is over... he bandages of the wounded yet clean heart and kisses and reminds me that I am loved and I shall be healed. Jesus spent a great deal of his ministry healing those who requested it. All we need is ask and have faith that He is capable.

Mark 5:34 NIV
He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering."