Broken Ornaments
I have an extensive collection of Christmas ornaments. Most of them were given to me as gifts. Others are antiques I inherited from my mom. Unfortunately, I’ve had a few mishaps with some of them. The wings on ceramic angel Love fell off. An ornament that contained a Christmas tree, lost its Christmas tree. My favorite crystal star slid off a limb and shattered. With half a dozen broken ornaments accumulated over the years I felt broken from grief. I finally picked up the pieces and repaired what I could. These ornaments are once again on the tree where they belong.
If only it was that easy for us.
For all the joy Christmas brings, it can also magnify losses and disappointment. The pain of losing loved ones, financial struggles, and strained relationships is often augmented during this time of year. Feelings of loneliness, regret, and despair can be exacerbated during the very season that offers us hope and redemption.
Because Christ was born to deliver us from our brokenness, we can overcome it. Painful situations can break us. Yet, we don’t have to remain broken. Jesus was merciful to people—people with leprosy, those who were disabled, and even one notorious woman at the well. Christ offers the healing and redemption we desperately need. We celebrate the birth of the Babe, yet it is the Man who gave Himself to be broken for our sakes Who redeems.
Though it takes time to heal and push through our pain, Jesus Christ can take our brokenness and use it in ways that allow us to fulfill our purpose. The painful circumstances we experience can sometimes reveal a new calling as we enter a different season. It is the painful times in life that teach us mercy, compassion, and empathy. Countless grief ministries, special needs services, and support groups were initiated by people who used their hardships to positively affect the lives of others.
My crystal star hangs once more. The shattered pieces were collected and glued back together. Surprisingly, I appreciate it more in its repaired state than when I first received it. The glaring imperfections remind me of God’s ability to take broken pieces and get us back where we belong. Though flawed, the star still reflects the light as it was designed to do.
Thankfully, we can too.
Question for Reflection:
Recall a time you were devastated. Is there anything from that experience you can use to help others? Is there anyone you can encourage during this holiday season?
