September 5, 2023
REPAIRERS OF THE BREACH
Kathy Manfredi
Volunteer, Illinois
"And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; you shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in.” Isaiah 58:12
Recently, I was asked to do a presentation about my trip to Malawi with MMM. While preparing for the talk, I recalled many of my experiences – the beauty of the country and its villages, the friendliness and generosity of the people, the roads and bridges as well as the beautiful friendships I made. I was reminded that Malawi is referred to as “the Warm Heart of Africa,” but I was also reminded of the contrast between life in Malawi and my life back home.
Great chasms have developed in our societies and our world – disparities in economic or educational systems, lack of affordable housing or of food and water. Political and legal systems are rife with discord and many personal relationships are broken. At times, the brokenness of the world is all we see. Repairing these issues can be challenging, taking time or requiring structural or organizational changes. It is easy to fall into despair and mourn or rage at the unfairness of the world.
Yet, we are a people of faith. We are called to be a “repairer of the breach”; one who restores the right way. Injustice, corruption, and unequal distributions of resources are examples of how people have become alienated from God; how we have allowed ourselves to accept these divisions.
In The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, Kamkwamba states “I went to sleep dreaming of Malawi, and all the things made possible when your dreams are powered by your heart.” When we walk to install a well, when we sing and dance in joy, when we share our bread with those who have none, or when we tell our story after returning home, we repair the breaches in our lives and experience the warm heart of God. Let us allow our hearts to be led by our dreams. When we repair our own alienation from God, focusing on restoring the right way at all times and with all we meet, the breaches in the walls will begin to close.
Application Question: What are your dreams for a better world? When have you let your heart be led by those dreams?
Prayer: Father, we ask for Your guidance, strength, and compassion as we seek restoration. Help us work toward justice for every individual and follow the dreams of our hearts in healing that which is broken. In Your name, we pray. Amen
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