Repair in Our Throw Away Culture

Encounter: Take time to read through or listen to chapter 54-63 in Isaiah and end your time with Luke 24:25-43. Where do you see or hear what God is like?

How are you at repairing things? When I reflect on it, I tend to discard items that are broken, torn, or have lost their functionality—unless they hold significant value or sentimental importance to me.

On one hand, it’s straightforward to toss something out and replace it, but on the other hand, restoring an item often requires patience, focus, and sometimes the investment of money to hire an expert for repairs. Regardless of your inclination, one fact remains true: there is a profound satisfaction that comes from fixing something and transforming it back into something useful or beautiful.

In a disposable world, God is in the business of repair. Isaiah 54-63 shows a God who doesn't discard the broken but redeems them. Jesus fulfills this in Luke 4, and in Luke 24 He meets His disciples not with judgment but restoration.

In Isaiah 57:14, God says, "Rebuild the road! Clear away the rocks and stones so my people can return from captivity. Later in chapter 58, God calls us to, rebuild the deserted ruins of your cities. then you will be knowns as a rebuilder of walls and a restorer of homes. The call to be "repairers of the breach" is ours today. Whether it's a fractured relationship, a struggling community, or a weary soul, we are called to be agents of restoration. Build up! Build up!

Repairing with You,

Pastor T

Reflect:

This week, ask God: What am I tempted to throw away that He's calling me to repair, redeem or restore?

• Act: Initiate one act of repair this week.

Spiritual Practice:

Is there a practical way God is inviting you to carry out the repair? Meditate on Isaiah 57:14-21, underlining any words or phrases that speak to you acting to repair. Wait patiently and prayerfully in the days ahead to sense the Spirit's leading. Preserve this in your journal.

Gather: Small Group Discussion Guide

1. Where have you seen God's restoration in your own life?

2. What broken place is God calling you to rebuild?

3. How can our group practice being "repairers" together?

4. Reflect on a personal "scar" God may use for His glory.