Crowned with grace and glory

Have you ever seen a child with a dunce cap on his/her head? It’s a horrible sight that was quite common in schools many years ago. Thank God that parenting, coaching, and teaching techniques and standards have changed.

I remember the shower of shame and pain inflicted on me and others who missed the grace of a teacher or coach. I’ve been called many unflattering names and struck by hands, hockey sticks, and pieces of chalk. I’ve had my knuckles smacked by an angry nun. I’ve been beaten up in the schoolyard, on local streets, on a bus by a gang, and in the hockey rink.

It may seem rather silly, but I feel like one of the fortunate ones in this crazy world. You see, friend, I’ve counseled victims of severe abuse and even survivors of the genocide in Rwanda. My story doesn’t begin to compare to the pains of sexual abuse and the injustices perpetrated on many women around the world. I feel sad and angry just thinking about it. To all of you who have suffered like this, I’m so sorry. I have no words to express my horror at your pain. My only comfort comes from God and His Word: “She will give you a garland to grace your head and present you with a glorious crown.” (Proverbs 4:9, NIV)  

In this verse, Solomon points to the attributes of wisdom and encourages us to seek this wisdom. When we seek it, God will help us navigate a world of injustice and pain. Wisdom will inevitably cause us to be crowned with an ornament of grace. In fact, Solomon mentions the crown given to us is one of glory. Wow! This glorious crown will be delivered to you by God through the gift of wisdom. 

So, friend, seek wisdom because it will help you experience grace and glory in every situation, especially in a broken world, family, business, or community.

You are a miracle, and I really love you a ton.