Bruised Reeds and Smoldering Wicks

A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he has brought justice through to victory. Matthew 12:20

Did you ever feel like a bruised reed or a smoldering wick? 

The reed, hanging by a mere strand, is the very picture of brokenness. The smoldering wick, having come to the end of its oil supply, is sputtering and smoking – clearly on its last legs. Most of us have felt this way at one time or another.

Some people have no sympathy for human weakness. They dismiss folks out of hand because of their brokenness, offering instead neglect, criticism and contempt. Not so, Christ. The good news of the gospel is that Jesus, full of mercy and compassion, would never break a bruised reed or snuff out a smoldering wick.

Christ could be quite dismissive of religious hypocrisy. His denunciations of such hypocrisy were withering. But he had nothing but compassion for human weakness and wounds. Far from breaking the bruised reed, Jesus would heal and restore it. And as for the smoldering wick, he would supply it with oil and re-ignite its flame.

So if you’re feeling bruised today, or if your faith is smoldering, don’t hesitate to approach Jesus. He will receive you with arms wide open in compassion. He will comfort and restore you with gentleness and lovingkindness. 

He will receive you with arms wide open.