Something's Always Broke

We're still considered visitors at the church we've been attending for several months so it's common for members to ask about who we are and what we do, where we live and how many children we have. Today was no different. A precious lady we sit behind, occasionally, lovingly went through the drill and discovered we live on a farm. Without skipping a beat, she said "Oh really, my father lives on a farm. Something's always broke."

And you know what? She's right. I needed to hear that today. In a twisted sort of way, it encouraged me. In our list of "things to do in town after church", another visit to Northern Tool was priority.  The Farmer and the hydraulics on the tractor are battling it out and the Farmer is determined to win. He's sorta like that. I've gotta hand it to him, he's hanging tough even though his wife continues to ask:

"Now, what's wrong with the tractor, again?"
"Why are we going to Northern Tool, again?"
"Can we get on with it; when can I start planting?"

I would've taken the thing to the tractor sale a long time ago.

But, it's the broken things (farm equipment, hearts, marriages, friendships, bodies, churches, etc.) that tend to teach us valuable life lessons we wouldn't learn otherwise because after all, who actually asks for suffering? Our human nature will never sign up for it. But, thankfully, God's deep love for us trumps our comfort and suffering prevails. We're left with a hollow space that needs something....or someone. Instead of filling the hollow spaces of your heart with the roots of bitterness, or impatience, or hatred, or revenge, or smite let me offer a suggestion. Jesus Christ offers love, patience, kindness, goodness, joy, peace, resolution, healing, and Truth. He's the only path through brokenness. Do you need Him?