(By Rachel Joyce)
The expectations, condemnations, and rejections
Create burdens you were never meant to bear.
Sometimes you wear the sorrows of the years,
Not as scars, but as open wounds, still weeping.
You slip on a pretty sweater, thinking it will hide
The hemorrhaging, but you’re only fooling you.
Denial has never yet brought healing…or freedom,
Only loss — of feeling, thinking, closeness.
Refusing to acknowledge your pain, you forfeit
Your birthright: comfort, grace, and peace.
God’s outstretched hand still holds your blessings:
Comfort, grace, and strength to meet your needs.
Let the light of His presence dispel the shadows
Of your shame, your sorrow; let Him hold you.
With His strong arms, He pulls you close
Surrounding you with gentle love.
Let Him hold you, love you, heal you.
Let His compassion transform you
So that others see Jesus when they look
At you, hear Jesus when they listen to you,
Know Jesus as they come to know you
Because His life overflows in yours.