Niklas Eklov
Critics call the humanitarian system both “broke” and “broken.” There are many signs that they are right. The world is currently facing an overwhelming humanitarian crisis with around 60 million people refugees or internally displaced. According to the UNHCR, it’s likely to get worse.
The UN itself admits that the humanitarian system is broke, but not broken. They have planned the first-ever World Humanitarian Summit in Istanbul for May 23-24 this year to address the huge challenges.
These words “broke” and “broken” have kept coming to my mind. What is God’s perspective on this? Has not God turned things upside down making “brokenness” into an asset through Jesus?
The Bible tells us God sent Jesus to take all of humanity’s brokenness upon Himself (Isaiah 53:5); to bring healing to the broken-hearted (Isaiah 61:1, Psalm 147:3); and to restore us into a right relationship with God (John 1:12, 1 John 3:1). What a resource for a broken world. As children of God we are not broke, but broken people being healed by Jesus, and sent into the world following the example of Christ (John 20:21).
This week, take time to reflect on:
Is brokenness and vulnerability something that is accepted, encouraged or avoided in your organization?
How could you in your situation this week be a resource for God to bring healing to the world?