A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not quench, until he brings justice to victory. Matthew 12:20

A few years ago when we lived in the city of Scranton, a house in our neighborhood was condemned and slated for demolition. Ironically, the problems had nothing to do with the owner’s neglect, but with the home’s unfortunate luck to be near a large storm sewer project. During all the digging, smashing and scraping going on out in the street, the building’s foundation had cracked. The city quickly paid the owner for the damages and he moved out. Then shortly afterward, large equipment was brought and in just two days the house was completely demolished and all its rubble carted away.

Is there anyone in your world like this small unfortunate home? Maybe their lives have gotten a little too close to other people’s important building projects. The heavy equipment, the digging and smashing going on that is happening while others are reaching their goals has weakened their footings.  Problems beyond their control have wiped away in a few short hours an entire lifetime of family dinners, memories of children playing and hopes for the future.

The world specializes in wrecking hopes and dreams, but Jesus said that He would never break bruised hearts or put out flickering candles of hope. If during this Christmas season the wrecking ball of life comes to tear down our neighbor’s home, we have an opportunity to point them to the gift of hope we have found who was born in a manger. He still shines a light in darkness that no situation person or problem will ever be able to put out!