For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
(Jeremiah 29:11)
Your eyes catch the glimpses, even if you weren’t really looking. People, homes, relationships, businesses, prospects, minds, nations, and systems. The brokenness permeates the very fabric of human existence.
In reality, times don’t really change. The underlying issues only gain increased visibility.
Sometimes, we too find ourselves with the broken pieces of something precious, made so by our hands, those of others or a saddening mix of both. The pain of the loss can be suffocating, and it registers deeply as irredeemable.
But I tell you, hope still remains.
It isn’t wishful thinking that Jesus can fix anything, regardless of the extent of damage. It is raw fact, with a catalogue of innumerable testimonies to go along with it. Much more than that, He can make the new piece more glorious than before. He gives beauty for ashes.
There is a remarkable Japanese culture called Kintsukuroi. It is the art of repairing pottery with gold or silver lacquer, and comprehending that the piece is more beautiful for having been broken. This is what He seeks to do.
But first, you must ditch the old ideologies of fear, doubt, despair and self-management. Then, boldly bring the matter to the Master Rebuilder in absolute faith. He never rejects sincere people.
Next, receive grace to forgive the responsible parties—both others and yourself. This terrible baggage is not worth losing your freedom over.
Finally, move forward, beloved. Forget the past. When it tries to rear its ugly head, shove it back down with songs of praise and affirmations of His Word.