Big Ole Softie

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:15-22

This one’s a no-brainer.  When it comes to the down-on-their-luck and the never-had-any-luck, the down-at-the-heels and the can’t-afford-any-heels, the downcast and the cast-off, God is a big ole softie.  Like a little old lady who can’t stop taking stray cats into her house, God won’t stop going to the crushed in spirit and taking them into her own heart.  Unlike the cat lady, however, God actually has all it takes to give every one of those spirits a good forever home.  And you’re part of the plan.

You know somebody with a broken heart.  I know you do.  So here’s today’s assignment: be a big old softie.  Go visit or call him or her on the phone and say, “I’ve been thinking about you.  How are you?”  Then listen, hard.  Distribute hugs and sympathetic noises and tears liberally, as needed.  Sometime before the conversation is over, say, “I love you.”

Because here’s the thing: that person might not have noticed just how close God is.  But in your love, they won’t be able to miss it.

Prayer

God, show me who you would have me reach out to today.  And in the reaching, may both the broken hearts—mine and theirs—begin to be healed.  Amen.

About the Author
Quinn G. Caldwell is the Pastor of Plymouth Congregational Church, Syracuse, New York.  His most recent book is a series of daily reflections for Advent and Christmas called All I Really Want: Readings for a Modern Christmas. Learn more about it and find him on Facebook at Quinn G. Caldwell.