As an adolescent, I learned through my brokenness that the world is filled with other broken people. My mother and father were broken people, which ultimately caused conflicts in their relationship and his decision to leave her with seven children in the early 1950s. I was told that my father worked in Gary, Indiana, at the U.S. Steel Mills, alongside other people competing for manual labor jobs. Even though the economy began to thrive, life for many recovering from World War II was highly challenging, especially among minority groups.
My parents’ separation and breakdown forced children in our family to experience a deep sense of rejection that carried over to the following generations. It caused some of us to be very sensitive and live in our feelings, rather than the truth, without prejudice.
To survive the different types of rejection that many of us face each day, a faith that seemed larger than life was required. The brokenness caused feelings of distrust, abandonment, indifference, aggressiveness, and insensitivity, which brought hardship and pain to some. Thankfully, some gave their lives to Christ before they passed away.
Today, I see the same brokenness in the lives of leaders and the public, who struggle with feelings of rejection, especially when things don’t go their way. They can become easily offended at the drop of a hat and retaliatory. This attitude is happening across all people groups more than ever before. An unguarded heart becomes the dumping ground for other people’s discarded rubbish and will damage your relationship with others.
With the Knowledge that this world is filled with broken people… shouldn’t we live with our hearts guarded by God’s Grace to be kind? The twin of brokenness is bitterness, but grace is the ointment that heals deep wounds.
“Forgiveness is the antidote that cures the cancer of resentment and revenge.” WLH.
Proverbs 3:3-4 ESV “Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So, you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man.
Please join us in celebrating Life at the Villages Community Chapel in Cribari Auditorium this Sunday at 10 a.m. to be encouraged by the Word of Life and enjoy coffee and cookies with friends. The chapel is a place where needs are met, faith is affirmed, and new friends are made. You can view our worship services on YouTube at www.villagescommunitychapel.vgcc.club