Last night as I was sitting in a bar with one of my teammates and some of our new friends, the Lord allowed me to see His heart for the men in this bar district. As one man walked by, I looked into his eyes and it was almost as if I could see everything he was feeling, just for a brief second. The brokenness, the pain, the shame, the emptiness (the list goes on and on) all flooded over me and my heart broke. In that moment I knew that I needed to write him and all of the other men on that street a letter.
Dear John,
I’ve seen the way you look at her with lust in your eyes.
I’ve seen you treat her as nothing more than an object.
I’ve seen the fear in her eyes when you grab her wrist.
I’ve seen you try to demand power over her with your harsh words.
But more than that:
I’ve seen the brokenness and shame in your eyes.
I’ve seen how you try to mask the brokenness with your facade of having fun or just being one of the guys.
I’ve seen you trying so hard to find your fulfillment in the world’s lie of what masculinity is.
I’ve seen the desperate attempts at filling that immense void you feel deep down. I’ve seen your desire for true love and acceptance.
I’ve seen you searching, GRASPING for something better than the sex, alcohol, and drugs. Something that won’t satisfy instantly, only to leave you empty in a matter of hours. Something that these streets could never truly offer you.
But more important than anything I’ve seen in you:
I’ve seen the One who promises not only life, but life abundant. (John 10:10)
I’ve seen the One who promises you true, unending love. The One who sees you right where you are and says I delight IN YOU!
The One who extends an invitation of grace, mercy, and healing if you call on His name.
He is the One who has seen the darkest pieces of your heart but still calls you just as you are. He is the One who promises to redeem the most broken parts of your story into something more beautiful than you could ever imagine.
He is the One who offers hope and freedom. He is the One you have been seeking.
His name is Jesus and He loves you so much more than you could ever fathom. There is no amount of brokenness too deep for Him to redeem.
He is the answer to the longings of your soul.
He isn’t just patiently waiting for you. He is recklessly pursuing you.
Love,
A Jane Restored
