Articulating Hope
  • Home
  • Deacon Vernon's Blog
  • Speaking Engagements
  • Book Discussion Guide

A Smoldering Wick

7/21/2013

1 Comment

 
In the Gospel of Matthew chapter 12 verses 18 through 21 we see the words of the prophet Isaiah recalled from chapter 42 verses 1 through 4 in regard to The Chosen Servant. "A bruised reed he will not break, a smoldering wick he will not quench, until he brings justice to victory. And in his name the Gentiles will hope."

Although I have read these verses many times, something was different yesterday when I reflected upon them. I have typically viewed these verses in the context of the gentleness and compassion of our Lord. However, there is also a tone of strength in these words.  Although the Chosen Servant will not break the bruised reed nor quench the smoldering wick, he will bring justice to victory. That certainly gives the Gentiles reason for hope.

I believe the message in these few verses is very pertinent for believers today in regard to how we share the Good News with others. Are we faithful to the message while being gentle and compassionate in the delivery? There is plenty of pain and hurt in the hearts of many people. The world can sometimes be a very cruel experience. Reaching out to people with the Gospel message is certainly an admirable task, especially when they are hurting. Does the Gospel message bring hope for healing and forgiveness, or does it bring shame, guilt, and condemnation? What is the Gospel we proclaim in our words and in our actions?

Communication methodologies have changed immensely over the last 20 years and some key ingredients to effectiveness seem to have been lost in the process. Where is respect, honor, common courtesy, and tact? An abrasive personality in a face-to-face interaction is bad enough, but give that same individual the opportunity to communicate through e-mail and abrasiveness can be taken to a whole new level. The inability to hear the tone of one's voice in electronic communications can be a detriment to realizing just how rude, crude, uncouth, and socially unacceptable the message may truly be. This type of experience can be devastating to an already spiritually and emotionally wounded individual, and if it comes from a person in a position of authority, the impact is even more catastrophic.

It is important for people of faith to build up the Kingdom of God through our words and actions. Even if the majority of the secular culture would prefer that Christians keep their worldview to themselves, we have a responsibility to continue to live our lives in faithfulness and fidelity to our Lord, Jesus Christ. Furthermore, we have a responsibility to be a beacon of hope to others who are struggling. Are we willing to bring the love of Christ to others without breaking the bruised reed nor quenching the smoldering wick? 
1 Comment
Ed Boenisch
7/21/2013 09:52:19 pm

Love the photo...

Two thoughts crossed my mind as I read your insightful piece:
-- preach the Gospel, and if necessary use words
-- and our words are so critical as you noted. In JustFaith, we share our thoughts and feelings in such a way that we don't debate or try to change a person. We call it prayerful or sacred listening.

Reply



Leave a Reply.

    Archives

    December 2022
    November 2022
    October 2022
    September 2022
    August 2022
    July 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    June 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015
    December 2014
    November 2014
    October 2014
    September 2014
    August 2014
    July 2014
    June 2014
    May 2014
    April 2014
    March 2014
    February 2014
    January 2014
    December 2013
    November 2013
    October 2013
    September 2013
    August 2013
    July 2013
    June 2013
    May 2013
    April 2013

    Author

    This is my personal blog.  The opinions expressed are those of Deacon Vernon and the blog's readers.  This site operates independently and is not affiliated with any other entity. The information I provide is on an "as-is" basis. I make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of any information on this blog. I will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information. Furthermore, I will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

    RSS Feed

Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.