“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:17 NIV).
Our Lord knows what it is to suffer–first-hand. While on earth he knew rejection, betrayal, misunderstanding, aggressive opposition, extreme physical abuse (in His scourging), and crucifixion (possibly the most agonizing, lingering death known to man).
He who knows what it is to suffer can be wonderfully near those who are suffering themselves. He is tender and kind, “A bruised reed He will not break, And smoking flax He will not quench; He will bring forth justice for truth.” (Isaiah 42:3 NIV). We miss the beauty of those words if we don’t understand the compassionate “extra mile” illustrated by them.
The reed pipe was a tool of the shepherd. He used it for comfort both for the sheep and himself on those long, lonely nights of isolation. The same sound that brought comfort was a warning to predators as well–“stay away; human nearby.” These pipes were easily made, and just as easily broken. Because of the ease of their production, the common practice was when one broke, it was discarded and an new one found and crafted. Sounds a lot like some churches. We would rather transfer whole people from other fellowships into ours then mend broken people. Yet the Lord is in the mending business. While others might discard the useless broken reed, He repairs it and uses it! And the smouldering flax, He does not blow out, but gently fans it back to flame.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” I don’t know what hurt you may face today, but I know this: you won’t face it alone. The Lord of the Universe promises to be close, right there with you, in your problem; in your pain. You can lean on Him, the only question is will you lean on Him?
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