Brokenness=Blessedness

"Oh, dear, I've had an accident!" she exclaimed. "I guess I'm just not humble enough yet, the Lord has to still humble me. . . " Her words caught me off guard. I hadn't view the situation from her eyes. No, my response was here is something I can do to intervene, I can actually use my nursing skills while showing my love and care. I always wanted to be the caretaker of my parents as their age progressed, but as things turned out, they independently lived before they passed on. But at that moment with my aunt, I had a chance to give a little to one who had given so much to me throughout the years. What caught me by surprise was how she thought she was still in need to be humbled. My aunt was so saintly to me, she had been the one who cared for all her family, for her elderly mother, aunt and uncle. She had seemingly sacrificed her personal life to provide stability and a loving home for all of them. She loved to entertain, her home was welcome for brunches and lunches; she also taught a Sunday School class down at the city mission. She never impressed me with her pride, but more as a willing servant. I loved her smile, her dancing eyes, and open arms that always welcomed me.

So for me, it was no big deal. It was a task I was trained to do, plus accidents happen. Our bodies don't always respond the way we want them to. I reassured her, "All is fine, I'll have you cleaned up in no time!" In just a few minutes, peace was restored. The dirty laundry was washing in the machine, the bathroom all picked up, and my aunt was back looking well, and so much younger than her almost 99 years. The rest of the afternoon was spent reminiscing with my Dad and me. It was the last time, I would spend with her, but as you see, it was one that I won't forget.

Brokenness or humility allows for blessing to come and fill our voids. The vulnerability of surrender makes us feel uncomfortable, but provides an outlet for others to show their love and care. The one who is able to serve finds blessing in the giving, and the one who is served is blessed by receiving all that was offered. Sometimes, I think we equate humility as something to be shunned and despised, but to the contrary it is a path to healing our inward fears and worries. Brokenness brings blessing. . .

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