Bumps and Bruises

Adam is my one-year-old grandson who has scrapes and bruises on his face from exploring his new world. He is learning what Albert Einstein said so well, "Wisdom is not a product of schooling but of the lifelong attempt to acquire it." Acquiring knowledge and wisdom comes with difficulty – bumps and bruises.

The connection between rough times and growth can be illustrated in nature. Seeds must be damaged, their outer shell cracked, before germination takes place. The "broken seed" coupled with rain and good soil grows to maturity and bears fruit.

In a similar way, the annoyances, hurts and even sufferings that sometimes come my way serve to break through my hard outer shell and make me more receptive to God's love and power. Jesus talking to His disciples about the challenges that would be theirs said,

In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. (John 16:33 NIV) 

Part of living my faith is accepting that the bumps and bruises of life can lead to a greater understanding of God's love and manifestation of His glory resulting in great hope.

Let's learn and be changed by the bumps and bruises of life.
 

Sharing the journey with you,