by Mark Weinrich

It’s hard bearing barbs
in your heart from those who
should have believed in you.
Perhaps, the arrows weren’t 
meant to stick, but still they
have a crippling effect.

It’s tough releasing
the companions, the crutches
of blame and complaint.
For when hurt has defined
the breadth of your life,
it’s difficult to trust.

But in the Mender’s presence
we can remember He was once
betrayed. No matter the depth
of grief, the Mender’s peace
is deeper still. For He works
with unbelievable tenderness,
understanding the pain and
the piercing wounds. He even
gives unconditional grace,
showing how to forgive
for He knows what it means
to be scarred.

Mark Weinrich lives a creative life as a writer, photographer, musician, and artist–all wrapped together in an outdoorsman. He is a retired pastor and nine-year cancer survivor. His writing and photography have appeared in over 138 news stand, inspirational, and literary publications. He has sold eight children’s books and currently has two fantasy novels on Kindle.