The human spirit can endure in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear? Prov. 18:14
Fathers, do not exasperate your children. Eph. 6:4
The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Ps. 34:18
But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. Isa. 53:5
Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Eph. 4:32
Dear Lord Jesus, I begin this day filled with fresh sadness and profound hope. The sadness was generated by witnessing a parent commit “spirit homicide” on a child who couldn’t have been older than two or three. Walking though the store parking lot, I watched as an exasperated mom targeted her son’s spirit for crushing. I literally saw that little fellow shrivel under the weight of her impatience, harshness, and anger. The image lingers—maybe because I know what a crushed spirit feels like.
In all fairness, I have no clue what was going on in that mom’s heart. I have no idea what preceded her cruel eruption, but nothing could justify or excuse her behavior—nothing. And in all honesty, I wanted to treat her just as harshly as she was treating her son. For a moment I was more angry at her than concerned for her son. I need your mercy as much as she does.
That’s precisely where you come in, Jesus—where you come real close, for you are near to the brokenhearted and you save those who are crushed in spirit. This is why I also feel profound hope today, for you took the ultimate crushing of the cross that we might know your tear-wiping hand and a peace you alone can bring. Jesus, continue to heal those places, those wounds in my heart where I lost face and heart, where I simply went limp with shame.
Again, Jesus, I don’t tower in judgment over this mom, but I stand convicted by her actions. All of us are just as capable and culpable of crushing the spirits of others—children, spouses, friends. Melt the madness of our meanness with the grandeur of your grace. Help us not to project upon anyone the unresolved conflicts, insecurities, and anger in our souls. Help us to repent quickly when we do, humble ourselves before those we offend, and run to you for the grace we need. So very Amen I pray, in your near and healing name.