Christmas has come to life at my house (a little early). Lighted garland, nativity scenes, and a few of my favorite snowmen have replaced my everyday decor. A seven-foot spruce stands beautifully adorned with ribbon, berries, and glittery balls.
Just a few days ago, I noticed one of the ornaments had fallen off the tree and was broken. I had been decorating in a hurry and this little ornament was a casualty of my lack of patience.
You and I are just like those ornaments – beautifully made, each unique in our design. But we’re fragile. Harsh words and hurt feelings cause cracks that may not be easy to see, but as the world becomes impatient with us, we break.
My pretty little ornament may have been a lost cause but fortunately we are not beyond repair. God is willing and able to fix our hurts if we let Him. His supernatural grace, mercy, and love fill in the cracks and bind our hearts back together again. Not only does He repair us, He makes us stronger.
Knowing how easily we can crack and break, we need to extend that same awareness to others. Are you going to be seeing that family member that you can’t help but fight with this season? Do you have to spend time with people you would normally choose to avoid? Ask God to give you the grace and mercy you will need to be with them. In the midst of protecting your heart from damage, God can faithfully use you to build those people up as well. Remember they are just as precious to God as you are – so handle with care.
Be blessed!
Jennifer
“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him…” Nahum 1:7