Bruised Reed

Isaiah 42v3 A bruised reed He will not break, and a faintly burning wick He will not quench; He will faithfully bring forth justice.

Jesus quotes this scripture in Matthew 12 after healing a man with a withered hand. He’s just had a conversation with those who say it is not lawful to work (to heal) on the sabbath and shows them the importance of saving, even a sheep, on the sabbath - and how much more important they are to God than a sheep.

Yes, Jesus has power to heal and deliver, but He is also gentle and has deep compassion on those who are weak, broken and empty.

The reed is an emblem of feebleness, as well as of fickleness or want of stability, Matthew 11:7. A bruised, broken reed is an emblem of the poor and oppressed. (Barnes notes on the Bible)

Most would trample on a broken reed, seeing it as worthless and pointless. But Jesus comes to strengthen and hope to those who feel hopeless.

The Pharisees in Matthew 12 were more concerned with performing outward rituals and keeping laws. But Jesus was and IS more interested in character, heart and the whole person and most importantly in our weakness and brokenness.

The smouldering wick - This refers to the wick of a lamp when the oil is drained - the dying, flickering flame and smoke that hangs over it. It is an emblem, also, of feebleness and infirmity. Jesus would not further oppress those who had a little strength; He would not put out hope and life when it seemed to be almost extinct. (Barnes notes)

Jesus wants to fan the smouldering wick into a flame. He did this time and time again through His ministry, whether it was in speaking to the woman caught in adultery or encouraging the thief on the cross next to Him. Jesus reaches out to all bringing life and hope.

Ultimately, Jesus will bring forth justice and victory in all its fullness when He returns. Verse 4 of Isaiah 42 text goes on to say ‘He will not grow faint or be discouraged till He has established justice in the earth’

Until that day let us be encouraged that God is for us and God is with us no matter how broken and feeble we may feel.

Life can be incredibly tough, and some days we have to draw from God’s resources every single hour. Thankfully we can hang onto God’s character of mercy and grace when we are down and feel we have nothing left. He wants to build us up because we are precious to Him.

Maybe God would have you to play a part in fanning someone’s smouldering wick in to flame today. Or strengthening someone who is broken like the reed.

As His Body, let’s all look for ways in which we can show love and compassion to those around us.

Prayer - Lord, at times I feel like I’m so broken and have nothing left. But thank You that You haven’t finished with me. You bring hope and healing in spite of how I feel today.