Thanks for Small Things
Scripture Reading — Psalm 147:1-11
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. . . . Sing to the Lord with grateful praise. . . .
When our young children scraped a knee or elbow, they’d cry for a bandage—whether they needed one or not. I’d usually comply. It was surprising how much comfort could come from a small adhesive strip. That’s probably because the tiny bandage represented much more than a wound covering, for it was put in place by hands with a history of showing love and tender kindness.
Throughout the Bible we can see that God also uses small things to bring hope and healing to the world. God chose the small nation of Israel and charged them to be a blessing to all other nations. Through this group of people, preserved and cared for by God’s faithful hands, the Savior, Jesus Christ, came into the world. And the Savior himself came in a tiny package: a baby born of a teenage peasant girl. Who would imagine that such a child would heal the brokenhearted and bind up their wounds?
Psalm 147 uses words that echo throughout the Bible and were made visible as Jesus went about his compassionate healing ministry. What’s more, Jesus promises to forgive all our sins and to be with us always to bring comfort and hope far beyond words printed on a page.
Let’s give thanks that God works in small ways. Ask him to help you see today how his faithful hands are tending your wounded heart.
God, receive our thanks that Jesus came in a small way to change everything with the forgiveness and hope he brings. In his name we pray. Amen.
About the author — Ruth Boven
Ruth Boven serves as minister of congregational life at LaGrave Ave. CRC in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She and her husband, Greg, have two adult children. They find rich purpose in urban ministry and delight in enjoying the wonders of God's good creation.
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