The concept that brokenness has any inherent beauty to it seems a contradiction in terms. The treasured heirloom that is chipped or marred, or the child’s toy that is disjointed beyond repair, either would defy such a concept, and yet Jesus speaks to the crowds with that same contradiction. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Jesus is saying that for those who know their own brokenness, there is something to be gained, and within this context, “the kingdom of heaven” embraces all that God offers to the one who is poor or broken in spirit. Personal, spiritual brokenness brings us to our knees, perhaps physically, but more importantly, within my heart. There is nothing left of self, neither self-righteousness, or self-help, self-determination, or self-sufficiency. I have stopped fighting and stopped trying to control. I realize my nothingness and my inability to “fix” or even bring resolution. Loss or failure has overwhelmed. Death, trauma, or abuse has scourged. Vulnerability or infertility, poor health, a failed marriage, or a prodigal child has aborted my personhood. The awareness of my sin darkens any hope of worthiness. And yet the heart that is bent, emptied of self, turns to God. And that heart gives God nothing except the whole of its broken, damaged, and inadequate self.
Rahab was a prostitute, broken by the truth of a powerful God. Samson became self-sufficient and prideful, but his brokenness cried out to God as he bent with all his might against the pillars. Hannah was broken in her barrenness. David was broken by the magnitude of his sin, and Isaiah’s brokenness took him to his knees in total unworthiness. Jesus’ disciples were often overwhelmed with their own inadequacies. And Jesus touched the lives of countless others tormented by disease or broken bodies, by demonic oppression, or by death. Each one in their brokenness bent their heart before God, and each one found the beauty, the potential, the purpose, the enabling, and even the joy, God wanted to give.
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. What is to be gained? What does God offer? From the book of Isaiah come the words, “a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.” Forgiveness and a worth that is given to every child of God. Comfort and peace in the presence of our enemies. Honor and fullness. Satisfaction. Security and strength. Purpose. Completion. And intense joy. Lives of brokenness bent before a loving and compassionate God, a God who provides abundantly for the need that brought the brokenness, that God crowns His provision with joy – always. And the contradiction in terms becomes reality, the beauty of brokenness.
– Bev
(Related Bible reading: Matthew 5:3; Isaiah 61:2,3)
