Devotion June 2018 - LPNI

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Devotion June 2018

Scars

By His scars we are healed. Isaiah 53:5

While some cultures purposely create scars as a thing of beauty in their eyes, most of us see scars as a challenge; perhaps one that’s been overcome, but none-the-less a challenge. My physical therapist, Lance, said I had a very nice scar after knee surgery; yet that compliment is in the context of a certain amount of suffering. However we may view scars personally, scars are a sign of God’s healing presence in our lives.

Jesus invited Thomas to connect with his scars in his hands and side. As we also do so, he says to us as he said to Thomas: “Believe in what I’ve done for you.” Our lives are in his scarred, nail-pierced hands.

Both physical healing and spiritual healing are real. In both regards our true healing is in him. While it’s possible to see our own scars as a blessing, it is by his scars that we find true healing. In this eternally amazing chapter from Isaiah (53) we see how it was God’s plan to do this for us. Long before it happened, our Lord knew the coming scars and wounds, the nails and spear, the sin and hell. He became a human person to enable him to have scars and suffer for our salvation. He took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows. The Lord laid on him the iniquity of us all. By his scars we are healed.

Concerning the scars of our lives, we have this posted in our home: “The Lord may not have planned that this should overtake me, but he has most certainly permitted it. Therefore though it be an attack from the enemy, it has the Lord’s permission and therefore all is well. He will use it along with all of life’s experiences for good.” Knowing his care for us in all things frees us to care for others.

Until we experience the ultimate healing of eternal life, we spend our energies “preaching good news to the poor, binding up the broken hearted … comforting those who mourn … providing a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.” Isaiah 61. Through his scars and his cross, as nurses and pastors, and as Christians we are in the healing business.

For us who know his healing presence in all aspects of our lives, may we be encouraged and strengthened through his scars in our healing ministry.

Rev. Fred Zimmermann

Cross Plains, WI

pzjerusalem@yahoo.com