Immanuel with the Bruised and Burnt Out

December 7, 2023

Advent 2023

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My graduate school acting teacher often repeated the saying, “The first step to solving a problem is admitting you have one.” The Pharisees in Matthew 12 had trouble with this step, even though Jesus took pains to point out the condition of their hearts. On the other hand, the disabled, ill, and afflicted were painfully aware that something was wrong. Recognizing they were bruised reeds and smoldering wicks they sought help in Jesus. And He was willing to heal them.

I think this passage is so beautiful because it shows Jesus’ heart posture toward the whole world. He is focused on His kingdom-building work. On the one extreme, He engaged in public discourse but when He perceived that the Pharisees were enflamed against Him, He withdrew from them. But as Immanuel, God with us, He continued to walk alongside the humble and to show them His grace (James 4:6-10). When the crowds followed, He healed them all.

But Jesus kept a low profile in the wake of the Pharisees’ conspiracy. He commanded those He healed not to make Him known. Today, we live in a ‘broadcast’ world. Social media has given everyone access to a public voice and presence. It has its benefits. But it also increases the temptation for shouting and quarreling in public. I think Jesus gives us a model for our focus: alongside Him in His ministry to the bruised reeds and smoking flax. He shows us that our big God is involved not only in conversation, but also in something bigger—He is interested in how we are doing. How is your health? Are you in relationship with Jesus? Are you spending time with Him, learning from Him in His word? Are you taking His advice?

God knows our needs, even before we ask, and He will provide. First, we need to recognize our need; and second, humbly go to Him for help.

For reflection:

A reformer once called the human heart a “perpetual factory of idols.” Have I put anything before God in my life that I need to repent from? God promises “times of refreshing” for those who repent and turn to him (Acts 3:19). This is a powerful promise.
Is there someone I am standing aloof to that I need to reconcile with? Have I become numb to the danger of chronic sin?

by Steven Jaehnert