Brokenness

At times it's just a concept we read about in a book or perhaps hear a preacher relate his or her personal experience...other times it's the only word adequate to define the anguish of our own souls. Though I intend to express here the condition of my heart, I do not intend to do so without also proclaiming the work of Christ in His people as they lay broken at His feet. Have you ever felt like nothing around makes any sense? Does it ever seem like everyone around you is right where they're supposed to be and completely ecstatic about it while you feel lost, alone and hopeless? There are moments when I can see a ray of light, a glimmer of hope, a promise of joy, but often those moments are quickly clouded over by sorrow, doubt, sin and fear. The reality is there are dark hours of the soul, times of absolute brokenness where the sinner becomes so aware of her sin, so aware of her heart, of her choices, of her fears, that she can no longer stand. It is in those times, bent over and kneeling that one hopes only to raise their weary head and to see the strong arm of salvation extended toward them. It is here where one sits or better said falls at the foot of the cross of Christ realizing again or perhaps for the first time; the sweet grace, the loving mercy, the unconditional love and forgiveness and...the hope offered in the greatest moment of brokenness in history. He reaches down and with a strong arm, He saves you. You cry out and He hears and He answers. But often instead of jumping up, you remain crouched down before your king holding on; His grip is firm, His eyes hold all the love that took Him to the cross, His lips whisper gently in your ear, "Hold fast my child, I will never leave you, I will never let you go and when you can stand again your grip will be firmer, your faith stronger, your hope brighter, your joy more radiant...hold on my love." My eyes locked to His, I hold on... "The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. Restore our fortunes, O Lord, like streams in the Negev. Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him." Psalm 126:3-6