There Is a Carpenter Nearby
When the Rev. Dr. Samuel Shoemaker was the rector of Calvary Episcopal Church in New York City, he had an old building fixed up and began a mission to the down-and-out men of the Bowery. A famous cartoonist became interested in the mission and drew for Dr. Shoemaker a moving poster. In the poster, a homeless man was depicted standing against a wall, while the cross from the mission was showing from around the corner. The caption read, “There’s a place nearby, where a Carpenter still mends broken men.”
I think that is beautiful. But I am also deeply aware that it’s not just homeless people who need mending. It’s also people like you and me. It is people with broken hearts and broken dreams; people suffering from despair or addiction; people who have made mistakes and people who take on the weight of the world.
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus said, “Come unto me all you who are weary and carrying heavy burdens and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
May you and I never forget that indeed, there is a Carpenter who still mends broken hearts and broken lives.
God of Hope, we all have broken places in our lives. We need you, and we draw close to you now asking you to mend us and heal us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Daily Message Author: Joe Albright
Joe began his ministry in Sarasota, Florida as an associate pastor, and it was in this capacity that he worked alongside the Reverend Dr. Roger Kunkel. Roger was a colleague who became a mentor and treasured friend. From Sarasota, Joe was called to Jacksonville, Florida where he served as the Head of Staff at Hodges Boulevard Presbyterian Church. Currently, Joe and his family worship and serve at Geneva Presbyterian Church in Switzerland, Florida. Full Bio
