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Day 4–Bruised reeds; Smoldering Wicks

Scripture reading for January 8: Matthew 12:20 “. . .a bruised reed He will not break, and a smoldering wick He will not quench, . . .”

As Jesus healed a man’s withered hand in the synagogue on a Sabbath, the Pharisees asked Jesus if it was lawful to heal on the Sabbath. According to these religious leader’s rules, healing on the Sabbath would amount to work and thus not be allowed. Jesus graciously offered them an analogy about a man having a sheep who fell into a pit on the Sabbath. Would not the owner of the sheep reach out and rescue him from the pit? (Matthew 12:10-11) The obvious answer was ‘yes’ and Jesus stated that it was lawful to heal and do good on any day. As the man stretched out his hand to Jesus, it was immediately restored. But this miracle demonstrating God’s care and love for hurting people stirred up murderous passions in the Pharisees who plotted how to destroy Him.

But Jesus knew their plans and withdrew from that place. Many hurting people followed Him and He healed them all. (Matthew 12:15) Matthew explained what had taken place by quoting form the prophet Isaiah 42:1-3. God’s chosen ‘Servant’ would proclaim justice to all people, but not with human methods or force or persuasion. He would show mercy to those ‘bruised reeds’ and to the ‘smoldering wicks,’ the weak and hurting and those willing to accept His healing ministry. This ‘Servant’ would not quit until justice was established and all people would find hope in Him.

As first responders, our hearts must have compassion for those who are bruised by life’s troubles. Some are despairing of life itself because of aging, troubles of life, accidents, or conflicts. Like our Lord, we are sent to reach out and care for them. We may encounter others who try to hinder us and our efforts. We must use wisdom and patience to try and calm them down. Sometimes we must withdraw and allow others with different giftings and authority to help. We always remember that Jesus helped the bruised and brought fresh oil and fire to those whose lives burned low.

Prayer: Father, thank You for caring for those bruised by life’s trouble. Thank You for sending willing responders with Your heart to minister to the hurting. Lead me in each incident to listen and discern how to help. Help me to stay calm and keep it simple. Use me to fan a new flame of life in the smoldering wicks and pour healing balm on the bruised. Amen.