The Brokenhearted

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. 

Psalm 147:3

There are plenty of broken hearts aren't there? 

More than we might even know.  It's easy to identify some folks with wounded hearts: the widower; the unemployed; those searching for a path and a purpose.  But, how many people do we work with, or sit next to in church, who are bleeding on the inside?

Just in observing Monday's events in Boston - the first medical professionals on the scene engaged in triage - determining those who needed care first and who were in good enough shape to wait a little while - we might gather some clues about those around us who could use a hand.

It might be a less than normal cheerfulness to their manner or a change in standard behavior that you might pick up on; so your easy question, 'How are you?,' can lead to a time of sharing concerns and trouble that will be eased by someone else helping to carry the load.

'Loving' someone back to health, to bind up their wounds, may not only significantly help the person you are caring for; it can change the lives of their family and friends as well.  Approach carefully, and in prayer, so that your efforts with those in your universe can feel the warmth of a friend's love.

You might be surprised that, in fact, you aren't doing the healing after all, but are an instrument to share the care and concern in times of need.  You might be surprised how much better it makes you feel.

A volunteer told me today that while she appreciated being thanked for her efforts, says that she gets so much more back than she could ever give through her volunteer service. 

A few days removed from the shocking horror of Boston - there are broken-hearted victims all over the world that were struck by shrapnel - whether it was real of imagined.  They might be runners or fans who can't bear the thought of participating in a large group event.  They might be veterans, or family-members reminded about the sudden loss of friends or family.  Or they could be those, reminded of the uncertain world in which we live, don't know where to turn for an anchor during a storm.

What a great gift it is not to wonder.

They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built.

Luke 6:48