Treasures in Earthen Vessels: From "Legendary Monster" to Messenger of Grace

 

Good morning, friends.

We've been exploring how Jesus extends grace and truth, and how we, as his followers, are called to do the same. Today, let's focus on a specific area where this grace is desperately needed: reaching out to the homeless and those who are broken, hurting, and destitute.

We often encounter individuals who are labeled "bruised reeds" – those who have been bent and broken by life's circumstances, perhaps by rejection from church, family, or other painful experiences. They may be homeless, addicted, or simply lost and alone. Yet, in God's eyes, they are treasures, housed in fragile "earthen vessels."

Treasures in Earthen Vessels: A Personal Journey

• 2 Corinthians 4:7: "But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us."  

I remember writing about this verse many moons ago, speaking about how we are treasures in earthen vessels. But, at that time, I hadn't truly experienced the depths of that truth. I hadn't walked the path of profound hurt and heartache.

Then came the passing of my family members, one after another, each loss a crushing blow. I found myself spiraling down a dark path, leading to bankruptcy, then to homelessness. I became, in my own words, a "real-life legendary monster," a shadow of my former self.

But through it all, God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit were there. Even in my darkest moments, when I felt utterly lost and alone, they were present. I have had one hell of a life, a journey marked by both devastating lows and miraculous highs.

Reaching the Bruised Reeds: A Shared Humanity

My experience has given me a profound understanding of the pain and brokenness that many homeless and hurting individuals face. I know firsthand what it means to be a "bruised reed," to feel rejected and abandoned.

This is why I feel so compelled to share this message. We must see the inherent worth and dignity in every person, even those society often overlooks.

How to Reach Out: Extending Grace and Hope

1. See Them as Jesus Sees Them:

   • Matthew 9:36: "When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd."
   • Cultivate a heart of compassion, seeing beyond their circumstances to their inherent worth.  

2. Offer Unconditional Grace:

   • Romans 5:8: "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."
   • Extend grace without expecting anything in return, showing them that they are loved and accepted.

3. Provide Practical Help:

   • 1 John 3:17-18: "If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth."  
   • Meet their physical needs as a tangible expression of God's love.

4. Share the Hope of the Gospel:

   • Isaiah 61:1: "The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners."  
   • Share your testimony, and the word of God.

5. Build Relationships:

   • Galatians 6:2: "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."
   • Listen to their stories, offer encouragement, and walk alongside them on their journey.

6. Extend Forgiveness:

   • Matthew 6:14-15: “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”  

A Call to Action: From Brokenness to Blessing

My journey has taught me that even in the deepest darkness, God's grace shines through. We are all "earthen vessels," carrying the treasure of His love. Let us extend that love to the "bruised reeds" we encounter, offering them healing, hope, and a path towards restoration.

Reflection:

• How has God's grace been evident in your own life, even during challenging times?
• How can your personal experiences equip you to minister to those who are hurting?
• What steps can you take to be a more effective vessel of God's grace in your community?

May God grant us the compassion and courage to be vessels of his grace, bringing healing and hope to the brokenhearted.