Embracing Brokenness This Christmas

What Does Broken Mean?

The dictionary defines "broken" in many ways: forcibly separated into pieces, like a fractured bone, divorce or separation; a broken promise; incomplete, such as an incomplete set of books; in disarray, like troops fleeing in broken ranks; subdued and humbled, as in a broken spirit; crushed by grief, leading to a broken heart; financially ruined or bankrupt; or simply not functioning, like a broken washing machine. In essence, it means something is wrong.

Most people see broken things as worthless and replace them with something newer or "better." Yet the Bible is filled with stories of broken people whom God used mightily, some of whom played a part in bringing the Savior into the world. Elizabeth felt broken in a society that shamed women who couldn't have children. Zechariah was confused when God promised a baby to his aging wife. But they were both able to rejoice when John was born. Mary may have faced separation from family, disbelief, and gossip from friends. Joseph dealt with fears and insecurities. But they were both able to see Jesus, the Son of God, grow into a man who would save the world. We all encounter times of brokenness—loneliness, isolation, confusion, fears, and insecurities.

Our Shared Brokenness

You can likely recall brokenness in your own life, and it may even feel more pronounced during seasons like Christmas. Brokenness can stem from separation or divorce, the loss of a friend or loved one, financial worries, confusion about life's path, depression, disappointments, or unmet expectations. It might manifest as feelings of rejection, being ignored (which silently says you don't matter), despised, useless, worthless, unappreciated, or unloved. These are all facets of a broken heart.

We often try to cope by replacing or avoiding the pain. Subconsciously or not, we seek fixes: finding love anywhere to feel good, even if it's a cheap imitation; seeking attention; spending money we don't have for a false sense of security; drowning sorrows in alcohol or drugs. These methods don't work—they usually make things worse. Sometimes we wear masks to hide our brokenness, but if we removed them, we'd see how similar we all are.

This isn't how God intended us to live. He doesn't want to throw us away. Aren't you glad? God loves broken people and can take those shattered pieces to create something great.

Seeing Brokenness Through God's Eyes

We often view our brokenness as confirmation of our deepest insecurities: "I've always thought I was worthless, and now I know it's true." But instead, remember you are God's beloved. Brokenness isn't proof of worthlessness; it's an opportunity to face our humanity rather than avoid it. It reveals our need for God, becoming a path to joy and peace.

Consider the parable in Luke 18:9-14. The Pharisee, appearing to have it all together, prayed, "God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get." He ignored his brokenness, boasting of his goodness. 

But the tax collector, standing at a distance, wouldn't even look up to heaven. He beat his breast and cried, "God, have mercy on me, a sinner." He recognized his brokenness and pleaded for mercy. 

Who was justified that day? The one who acknowledged his need for God.

I urge you: Recognize your brokenness for what it is and use it. Brokenness can push you away from God or draw you closer to God. Choose to draw near and be grateful that God didn't discard us. 

Instead, over 2,000 years ago, He sent Jesus to step into our brokenness, offering us life as His dearly loved children and restoring our relationship with Him.

Reflection Questions

1. What areas of brokenness are you experiencing right now? How have they made you feel about yourself?

   
   

2. Think of a time when you tried to "fix" your brokenness on your own (e.g., through relationships, spending, or avoidance). What was the outcome, and what might have happened if you'd turned to God instead?

   
   

3. Reflect on a biblical figure mentioned here (like Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth, or the tax collector). How does their story of brokenness and redemption encourage you in your own life?

   
   

4. How can viewing your brokenness as an opportunity to draw closer to God change your perspective this Christmas season?

   
   

5. In what ways has God's love through Jesus helped you experience restoration from brokenness? If not yet, what step can you take today to invite Him into your pain?

Share this with a friend who needs encouragement in their brokenness this Christmas season.

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