The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
Isaiah 61:1-3 (NIV)
As I prayed for numerous friends with all types of difficult circumstances, an image formed in my mind. I stood in a gigantic room with people milling about.
Band aids stuck to every arm, leg, and face. Large, small, crooked and tattered dressings clung to bodies. No one seemed to notice the strange situation.
Silence filled the room. Not one person spoke but they obsessively added more and more bandages.
Standing to the side, Jesus watched intently. His compassionate eyes studied each distressed person.
My mind and heart opened to the revelation. I had known the answer but understood in a new way as I viewed the unusual scene.
Our broken world desperately needs to be fixed. However, we constantly attach our own band aids like little children who think that solves every pain and hurt.
In some instances, the damage is slight so we fasten small bandages. At other times, we wrap ourselves in lengthy bindings to cover up all of the painful cuts and bruises. They curtail any contact with other people. Our feeble attempts don’t solve problems but often cause more distress.
While we focus on repairing and improving circumstances with our limited abilities, Jesus patiently watches. When we humbly admit we can’t fix ourselves, He nods, smiles and opens His arms.
He won’t rush in to yank off all the unsightly dressings that conceal unhealed wounds. However, when we admit we are helpless, He lovingly peels off ugly bandages. Joy replaces discouragement.
Although scars may remain, He makes us into new creations. A transformed life replaces our messes.
In my vision, Jesus’ arms reached out to embrace all who took steps to Him. Others in the room continued to wander aimlessly and in despair.
His smile and gentle nod toward them, directed all new creations to share the news of transformation. A few wanderers edged closer to Him. Some finally hurried to the Lord.
Unfortunately, a number looked away defiantly and continued believing they could take care of themselves.
Memories of my vision reminded me that Jesus is open to everyone but not all will go to Him. In the meantime, Christians must share their stories of redemption.
Lord, thank you for making us into new creations when we accept you. Lead us as we share out stories and bring others to Jesus.
Amen
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