A bruised reed He will not break,
And smoking flax He will not quench; Is.42:3

Father,

I know this is a verse about your son Jesus. Father what is here for me if anything. I know sometimes I feel as if I am a bruised reed or a smoldering wick and not worth much. Help me understand my value and purpose to my wife, family, and others.

My Dave,

Today, I begin by calling you by name instead of my son, not because you are not my son, rather because I want you to know that I know your name. With that, I know you, your heart and soul. I see and hear you. I know what you have been, what you are and will be. You are and have always been mine, at times a strong reed and bright burning flame. There have been times that the reed is bruised, and the flame is down to a smoldering ember. However, when this is the case, you are still under my tender care and mercy, not forgotten or unworthy. I am a gentle caregiver knowing how to tend to the reed as a master gardener not just plucking out the damaged plants but restoring it to health. I am also the Creator of light and thus a master at being the flame keeper as well as restoring even the smoldering wick. To those less skilled it may appear that a reed or a wick is no longer of use, however, I am the one that restores, rekindles brings life and purpose to things that others see as lost. Our enemy speaks to the heart and sows doubt and discouragement in an attempt to harvest death. I see what I created and desire that purpose to be fully fulfilled in every way. I can see even a tiny ember when it seems there is nothing left but the wisps of smoke rising from the wick.

Don’t hide from me as if I was harsh keeper of the garden or one that snuffs out the remaining life of a smoldering wick, again I say, I am the one that restores and in my care you are safe. The hurts and damage that have been done for whatever the reason, can and will be restored under the gentle care of the one that knows you and your purpose. Come closer so I can do my work in you. This is what I am restoring: the reed - a strong, useful in every way for a noble purpose, straight and strong, useful, and full of value, ready to be used to fulfill My purpose. The flame bright, strong, and able to cut the darkness that surrounds others. A light that is not deemed by doubt or past failures, one that is bold and knows that it chases darkness away and is not overcome or fears the night.

You are that Reed and Flame, continue to allow me to be that tender caretaker of your heart. The verse is about my Son, Jesus, and it is about you, the joint heir of Jesus your savior and brother, Lord, and Master.