Salvaged

Today I would like to say a special word of thanks to those of you who have supported the Dial Hope Foundation with a financial donation. Your gifts make this ministry possible! If you also would like to donate to Dial Hope, please visit our website at www.dialhope.org.

It’s been said that in the 1400s a sculptor ruined a huge piece of beautiful Carrara marble. It was left in the courtyard of the cathedral in Florence, Italy, for almost a hundred years. Artisans thought it was beyond repair. But in 1505, a young sculptor by the name of Michelangelo was asked if he thought anything could be done with “The Giant.” He measured the block and carefully noted the imperfections caused by the bungling workman of an earlier day. To his mind came the image of the young shepherd boy David. So for 3 years he worked steadily, his chisel skillfully shaping the marble. You and I know the results. Beautiful!

When I was in seminary, an older retired pastor came to speak to our class about the ups and downs of ministry. At the end of his lecture, he said, “If you remember nothing else, never forget the power of Jesus Christ to change lives – even yours.” I’ve never forgotten it. And, in the twenty years that have followed, I have seen it time and time again. Therefore, no matter how bad the situation; no matter how awful the person seems to be; no matter what, I always hold out for hope. Things can and do change. If Michelangelo can bring beauty out of ruin, how much more so can our loving Creator!

Let us pray: Loving God, we remember today that you are the One who calls into existence things that were not, and who even brings life out of death. We trust you with our confusing, messed up situations. We trust you with our burdens and anxiety. We ask you to infuse us with your grace and hope and show us a better way. We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.