Gunfire. Roadside bombs. Suicide. Drugs. Abductions. Financial meltdown. Poverty. Bankruptcy. War. Rape. Divorce. Tsunamis. Earthquakes. Tornadoes. Hurricanes. Drunk-drivers. Drive-by shootings. Murder. Hate. Cancer. Disease. Racism. Homeless. Layoffs.

Broken?

Hearing the news their son had been killed in Afghanistan has shattered lives. Homes have been destroyed by wildfires. A trusted financial advisor has swindled every last dime. A baby girl has been taken from her crib ... where is she? The doctor said, "Stage 4 cancer; no cure."

Broken?

Any relief? Yes!

When? The pain hurts. The burden is heavy. The days are long. When will the shooting stop? When will I get a job? I just want my life back! Help! Somebody ... help!

Hear what Jesus says:

Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me — watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly (Matthew 11:28-30 MSG).

To be broken is to be shattered. When we are hit with adversity we are shattered into a thousand pieces. Our heart hurts and the pain cuts deeply. However, we are not alone. Never alone! God reassures us:

I'll never let you down, never walk off and leave you (Hebrews 13:5 MSG).

Any relief? Yes! When?
Isaiah reminded us that God is in the "fresh strength" business:

He energizes those who get tired, gives fresh strength to dropouts (Isaiah 40:29 MSG).

The gunfire may never stop and drunks may never stop driving. Cancer may not be cured and wildfires may rage on. However, we have a God who will get us through the difficult days and the painful nights.

Healing is God's specialty. Comfort is a God promise. Hope is ours to keep. Strength is given freely. And, rest is on the lap of our Father.