30/06/2026
CAN THIS WOUND BE HEALED?
As a nurse, Nancy marveled over the human body's ability to
heal, and she loved caring for others. She and her husband, Phil,
had a strong marriage and thanked God for their two daughters,
Jacki and Jill.
Then one day Jacki came for a visit and announced she was
moving in with a woman she met online, several states away.
Nancy gasped for air, as if her windpipe had been crushed.
"What are you talking about?" Phil said. "You met this woman
online, had a few face-to-face conversations, and now you're
moving in with her? Please stop me if I'm misunderstanding you."
"I know you don't approve, and to be honest I don't care.
We've had an online relationship for six months, and we're ready
to take the next step. Mia's ten years older than I am, divorced
with three children." Jacki smiled. "Look at it this way--you've
just became grandparents."
Thoughts bounced around like a tennis ball in Nancy's head.
She cared for people all the time, but she was clueless about caring
for her family in this situation.
"You try to paint this as a pretty picture by saying we'll be
grandparents?" Phil's voice shook. "Have you considered what
Mia's children will think of their mom sharing a bed with another
woman? I can't believe you thought we'd celebrate with you."
Phil paced the floor, then turned to Jacki. "Does Jill know?"
"I told her last week. She's not in favor of my decision either
and hasn't spoke to me since I told her. I know she needs some
space, but I hope she'll visit Mia and me when she's ready."
Nancy found her voice. "I love you, Jacki, but I cannot in
good conscience bless your decision. I won't get into the biblical
reasons. You know why we believe it's morally wrong. With three
children in the mix, this will impact all of us in ways none of us can
imagine." She took a deep breath. "This isn't all about you. You've
shaken me, Dad, and Jill. I can barely breathe."
When Jacki left, Nancy felt as if a surgeon had cut her heart
into pieces and couldn't put it together again. She collapsed on
the couch, trying to stop the pain by wrapping her arms tightly
around her chest. How could this wound ever heal?
Your wounds may feel incurable today, but God is able to
bring healing to you and your family. Talk to Him about your pain.
Allow Him to comfort you.
Moving Forward In Hope
A Devotional for Families of LGBTQt Loved Ones
Denise Shick