Beautiful And Broken

Read: Psalm 139:1-6

O Lord, You have searched me and known me. —Psalm 139:1

I was walking in the woods behind my home the other day when I saw a beautiful, red-faced Western Tanager on the ground. The small bird had been attacked by a predator and was dragging a broken wing.

I gathered the bird in my hands—rough hands it must've seemed to him. Perhaps because he feared more abuse like he had already endured, he fought me ferociously, screeching in defiance, pecking my hands until he drew blood.

But I saw beyond the fury to his fear. I felt his heart racing under my fingers, so I held him close until he calmed down, then tucked him under my shirt. I took him to the "Bird Lady," a neighbor who is known for nursing injured birds back to health. She would know what to do.

Some people are like that bird. They lash out in fury against those who try to help them. But God knows the fear and brokenness that lie underneath. We can all say with David, "O Lord, You have searched me and known me. You . . . are acquainted with all my ways" (Psalm 139:1,3).

Let's pray and ask the Lord to help us see beyond others' behavior and be sensitive to their hurt. Let's respond with love, draw them close to us, and take them to the One who can heal their broken hearts. —DHR

God wants to bind the broken heart
And wipe each teardrop dry;
He'll calm and soothe the troubled soul
Who looks to God on high. —Brandt

God can mend your broken heart, but you must give Him all the pieces.

daily bread