Other than the usual twice-a-day brushing times, we didn't spend much time around our house worrying about my son Steven's teeth. At least not until he knocked out one of his permanent front teeth in a little scrape with his favorite climbing tree.

After having the tooth reinserted, splinted, x-rayed, drilled, and examined by an array of dentists, we are now very much aware of protecting Steven's mouth. The whole family has rallied around Steven to make sure we save that tooth. We know that if he damages it again, he may lose it. For the time being, he's had to put a halt to playing soccer, chasing girls at recess, and biting into apples.

Our experience with Steven's tooth reminds me of how we should protect the people in our churches who have been damaged by life. John told us to love one another (1 Jn. 3:14,17-18). In fact, this is an important way we demonstrate that we belong to the Lord (v.19). If we sense the presence of people who need our love and care, we can't just ignore them and risk losing them. If we don't protect them with Christian love, the next time they get hurt they may turn elsewhere for help.

Like an injured child, hurting people need protection. Let's make sure they get it from the church.  — Dave Branon