Matthew 12: 20 (0)
August 25th, 2009 by AJ, under devotionals.
“A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgement unto victory.”
In ancient times, before plastic and nylon, my guess is that reeds were a common construction material. I guess, no matter what object was being produced, whether it be a cloth, a basket or even a musical instrument, “bruised” reeds would often be discarded, or broken before the bruise particularly considering they were probably plentiful and freely available. This would maintain the integrity of reed and produce a quality object without weakness or blemish.
Likewise, considering the absence of electricity, I suppose that some sort of burning candle was the common form of light in the darkness. I also guess that when the “flax” or wick started to smoke and fill the house with smoke and reduce the amount of light given, that it was probably time to quench that wick and get a new one.
When I think about this in light of the scripture, my heart is undone. How incredible is the love of God?
Indeed this was a prophecy to the Jews regarding the nature of Jesus.However I think this scripture certainly applies to us today.
Like a reed, if you have weakness, if you are bruised or blemished. Jesus will not break or discard you.
Like a smoking wick, if the light of heaven smolders in your heart. There is hope! Jesus will not quench you.
Though we deserve to be broken and quenched, Jesus gave himself in our place!!
Please take caution! His sacrifice will not be available forever. On the day when His Judgement reigns, Jesus mercy towards will be dried up for those not found in Himself and they will most certainly be quenched and discarded.
Utilise Jesus’ love today. Regardless of how great or wicked your deeds may be. Regardless of how far or close you are to him. Run into His open arms of mercy and be found in him. For today, He will never reject you.