The Order of St. Luke Corner

The Healing of Damaged Relationships

By The Rev. Wm. A. Komstedt, Jr., BCC. Ph.D.

 For centuries, important relationships of all types have been damaged or broken. Going back to the book of Genesis we find the ancient story of how Jacob cheated his older brother, Esau out of his birthright (inheritance) with the help of his mother, Rebecca. Esau became so angry that he threatened to kill Jacob who then fled to another country. Not surprisingly, the brothers became estranged. 

To make a long story short, after many years, Esau became prosperous without his birthright and father's blessing. He no longer needed the wealth that was stolen from him.  Jacob eventually decided to make an attempt to heal the relationship and meet his estranged brother. Naturally he was fearful. To show his sincerity, he prepared many gifts for the brother he cheated. Esau decided to forgive Jacob and meet with him. They embraced and kissed each other instead of fearing, hating or blaming one another. God surely was pleased. Their broken relationship was renewed and healed through love and forgiveness.

Most of us, in our lifetime, have probably been part of or at least observed a damaged relationship. Anger for one reason or another is usually the cause or at least part of it. Most relationships are important or they would not have developed in the first place. Therefore, finding a way to repair them is worthwhile; furthermore restoration is also Christ like. Probably love and forgiveness are the only real and adequate solutions. It requires humility and the setting aside of blame.