by Kala Loptien
Proof of Healing
But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.
Isaiah 53:5, English Standard Version
Scars seem to be a part of life. I remember falling on the blacktop in elementary school and skinning my knee. I had quite the scar to show for it. I’m reminded of my son’s birth — the physical and emotional stress — when I see the large scar on my abdomen. My little girl has a scar on her brow bone. The mark of a life before God placed her in our home. Scars can appear in nature too, much like this tree. I’m guessing we all have experiences and stories tied to scarring.
Our Savior had wounds and scars — the most intense, excruciating, sacrificial and unfathomable kind. On that cross, He suffered a brutal death and agonizing separation from the Father so we would have victory and eternity in/with Him. We read that Jesus [intentionally] maintained the wounds when He appeared to the disciples. Though He didn’t have anything to prove, He did it for their/our sake. Any remaining doubt that He was the Messiah was demolished. These wounds were proof that Jesus was pierced and crushed in our place, then rose triumphantly so that by them we would find healing.
Scars are often what remains after trauma. They can tell a story of transformation. They are the physical proof of what we’ve experienced. While the visual remnant may remain, the death and resurrection of our Savior is proof of our spiritual and emotional healing. We are redeemed and given new life, with a compelling story and testimony to share with others.
Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado
