Hiding From The Help You Need

In Corey Asbury's song “Misunderstood”, a particular set of lyrics resonates deeply with me: “You’re broken. Anyone who says they’re not is lying. Maybe we all got too good at hiding.” These words echo a profound truth about human nature and the universal experience of brokenness. It's a theme that not only reflects the human condition but also aligns with the core message of Christianity – the redemptive power of Jesus Christ for the broken.

The notion of brokenness is not just a metaphorical concept; it's a reality that each of us faces. Whether it's due to personal failures, shattered relationships, or the general weight of living in a flawed world, this brokenness is an inescapable part of our existence. The lyrics poignantly capture this by stating that anyone who denies their brokenness is likely not being truthful. It’s a bold assertion, suggesting that our imperfections are as universal as they are varied.

This idea is not new; it’s deeply rooted in Biblical teachings. The Scripture says in Romans 3:23, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." This verse underscores the universal nature of our brokenness – it's an inherent part of the human condition. We all have our struggles, our sins, and our shortcomings. The acknowledgment of this fact is not meant to be a source of despair, but rather a starting point for seeking redemption.

The second part of the lyrics, “Maybe we all got too good at hiding,” touches on another profound truth. In a world that often values appearances and success, there’s a strong temptation to hide our brokenness. We mask our struggles, pain, and failures, often out of fear of judgment or rejection. Social media platforms, where people typically present only the best aspects of their lives, further exacerbate this tendency. But hiding our brokenness doesn't erase it; it merely isolates us in our suffering.

This is where the Christian message of hope comes in. Jesus Christ came into the world for the broken, the lost, and the hurting. He didn’t come for the righteous, but for sinners (Mark 2:17). This is a radical and comforting message. It means that our brokenness, rather than disqualifying us from God’s love, is actually what draws Him to us. In Jesus, we find someone who understands our pain, who bore our burdens, and who offers healing and restoration.

The beautiful paradox of Christianity is that our brokenness is both our greatest challenge and our greatest opportunity for experiencing God’s love. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, the Apostle Paul writes about how God’s power is made perfect in weakness. When we acknowledge our brokenness and bring it to Jesus, we open ourselves to His transformative power. It's in our weaknesses and imperfections that His grace shines brightest.

Reflecting on Corey Asbury's lyrics, I am reminded that hiding our brokenness is a natural but ultimately futile endeavor. We are all broken in some way, and that's not something to be ashamed of. Instead, it's a call to turn to Jesus, who offers hope, healing, and a new life. In Him, our brokenness is not the end of our story; it’s the beginning of a journey towards wholeness and redemption.

Jim

The Chaplain Writer