Strength in Brokenness: Reflections for Assisting Others With Traumatic PastsSample

Seeing Clearly the Second Time

From a tender age, I welcomed the Lord into my heart, seeking His comfort and healing from the deep wounds inflicted on me during a traumatic childhood. Over the years, I diligently pursued wisdom and strength, aiming to recover from the consequences of another's actions. However, a troubling pattern emerged whenever I encountered a particular family member. Simple conversations would trigger intense anger and emotional turmoil within me. These reactions, though puzzling, held valuable insights into my internal and external experiences. I gradually realized that the pain of my past had embedded itself deeply within me, never truly fading away. Unbeknownst to me, I had grown accustomed to carrying this burden, finding a false sense of comfort in my incomplete healing. God was not done with me.

I was recently reading the story of the man in the Bible, whom Jesus touched, and whose eyes were cleared. (Mark 8:22-25) The first time Jesus touched him, the man said he could see men as trees, indicating that his eyesight was much better. A miracle was performed, yet he was still unable to decipher specific traits of men. Jesus touched the man again, and it was not until the second time that the man could see everything.

The blind man’s story is very parallel to my own experiences. I believed I had been healed, yet in those moments of emotional discomfort, I recognized the significance of seeking another touch from Jesus. Just as the blind man's vision became clearer after the second touch, I understood that I had to return to Jesus, allowing His transformative power to bring complete healing and restoration to the lingering pain within me.

1. Do you know someone who continues to struggle with a broken past? Be patient: Healing from childhood trauma takes time and varies for each individual and progress may not always be linear. Offer ongoing support and be there for them consistently.

Ephesians 4:2 encourages us to approach others with humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with them in love. It reminds us that healing is a journey that takes time and requires understanding and support from those around us. By being patient and consistently present for someone who has experienced childhood trauma, we can demonstrate the love and care that reflect the character of Christ.

I mustered up the courage to discuss my emotional reaction to my sister. She asked very probing questions that led me to seek understanding and guidance from the Word of God. My sister explained that my responses to the particular family member were out of my character and encouraged me to seek healing for wounds that had been covered over time. I am very grateful for her spiritual guidance.

In the story of the blind man, it was others who brought the man to Jesus. Hebrews 10:24-25 teaches us to "consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." This passage emphasizes the importance of gathering together as a community of believers and encouraging one another to love and engage in good deeds. It reminds us to actively support and uplift one another in our faith journey.

In a world marked by brokenness and pain, we are called to be agents of healing, demonstrating the love of Christ in tangible ways. Let us be attentive to those around us who may be carrying the weight of past traumas, seeking to understand their struggles and providing a listening ear. By offering our support, we can create a safe space for them to share their stories and seek a touch from Jesus.