Blessing and Brokenness

Written by Jodi Davis Lybrand

This Mothers Day marked the day of my mom’s death twenty-one years ago. Fond memories filled the void of not having her on this special day. Then sorrow came with the thoughts that her great grandchildren would never know her sweet smile and hugs.

Did you catch the paradox? The blessing of memories, then the pain of loss, blessing and brokenness.

How often this mystery presents itself in life!

Remember 9/11? The horror of the attacks and the heroics of the first responders. Anger at the attackers and pride at the unity of our nation.

Consider childbirth. The pangs of labor then the joy of a new life.

Blessings in brokenness.

Wayne Flint puts it like this, “tragedy and triumph often occupy the same space”.

Surely the cross that Jesus bore presents the ultimate illustration of this. Our sins paid for by the sinless; injustice heaped on the innocent. From seemingly defeat came superlative victory!
Life from death! Blessings from brokenness.

Why? How can it be?

Well, my friend, I can’t adequately explain it but I know this. It should give us hope and courage. Hope that whatever situation we find ourselves in, whatever problem we’re facing believe good can and will come from it. We gain courage to confront life at its worse knowing God is with us. He will use your brokenness, even the barest flicker of faith, that you may not even recognize is there and bring life, blessing, purpose and meaning into it.

Yes, it is hard to look for a blessing when the pain is too great to bear any longer and suffering seems unending. Take courage, my friend, even in the midst of your battle. See, the victory is not at the end of your trial. Victory is right where you are!

Victory is when you call out to Jesus. Victory is choosing to trust. Victory is when you overcome the obstacles that are seeking to obstruct the view of your loving heavenly Father. Victory is when you push through one more day. Victory is when you stare down fear and it flees. You’re only defeated when you refuse to fight.

Asaph says this, in Psalm 50:15, “Trust in me in your times of trouble and I will rescue you, and you will give me glory.”
A promise in our troubles, blessing and brokenness.

The brokenness will be healed and the blessing revealed. Don’t give up! Ask the Lord for help to see your blessing right where you are. He loves you with an “everlasting love“ and promises “you will be happy again and dance merrily”. (Jeremiah 31:3,4 NLT) “God blesses those who weep now,  the time will come when you will laugh with joy.” (Luke 6:21b NLT)

May the Lord show you His love in wonderful ways and answer your prayers with awesome deeds!

Jodi Davis Lybrand is a lifelong resident of Shelby County. She is married and has raised two wonderful sons, has a beautiful daughter-in-law and 4 of the most adorable grandchildren ever!
Her favorites include playing with those awesome grand sweeties, enjoying long walks and sunsets, visiting with friends, old and new, painting and working on her bucket list!
A Bible teacher for 30 years, teaching preschool to senior adults (before she was one!) Jodi jests that she can teach you a Bible lesson in sixty seconds or sixty minutes! Most of all she loves to encourage people through the truths found in God’s holy word.