A bruised reed he will not break
“A bruised reed he will not break.” Matthew 12:20a
Although we do not use reeds in a significant way today, we can comprehend that a bruised reed is of no value. It is worthless. Therefore… it ought to be broken off. Likewise, the verse goes on to imply that a smoldering wick is worthless and should be snuffed out. Matthew 12:20a
But Jesus’ message contradicts this view. He will not break a bruised reed nor snuff out a smoldering wick. He does not consider anyone as worthless or of no value. John 3:16-17.
Prior to this phrase, His healing of those who are physically bruised shows Jesus’ compassion for bruised people. Matthew 12:13 and Matthew 12:15. Alongside this, those who are bruised by sin are of significance to Jesus. Luke 19:1-7 and John 8:1-11.
Sin bruises. Sin penetrates our whole being and tarnishes us. Romans 5:12 CEV. And sin blocks our relationship with a Holy God. So, sin, in a sense, needs to be broken off so our relationship with God can be renewed. How can this happen? God has given His own Son as a substitute for us. Romans 5:18 CEV, Romans 5:18 MSG It was Jesus Himself who was broken for us. Jesus took our sin upon Himself so that we might be healed and have a right relationship with God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 NLT. Isaiah 53:6-8 NLT
Jesus took on Himself the ultimate suffering for our sin so that we can stand before God as unmarked, not bruised, whole, not broken, people. Romans 6:11
“A bruised reed he will not break.” Can you find comfort and encouragement in this phrase?
Posted on Thu, 29 Nov 2007 21:00 by cbritton (273 day(s) old)
