OUR SCARS

John 20:26-28 KJV
26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.
27 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing.
28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.

Our Scars

Why do we hide our scars? Why do we neglect our wounds? Why do we cover our pain? Shame, guilt, and fear are often the culprits.

Unexposed scars dismiss our testimony and robs God of glory. Unexposed wounds can never properly heal. Unexposed pain is never resolved.

When Jesus was resurrected, He immediately found His disciples. Without shame, guilt, or fear, He exposed His scars. By His scars, His disciples identified Him and believed on Him. By His scars, God was glorified. Jesus bare and exposed His scars; he was met with the love and adoration of His disciples. 

Can you imagine how much different history would look if Christ covered His scars? If he never sought His disciples and let them touch his scarred side, hands, and feet? What if the Lord immediately ascended into Heaven without allowing His dearly beloved "family of friends" to explore His scars, witness His transformation, and ascertain His love.

The disciples' privilege and ability to touch Christ's scars was pivotal in their faith, their growth, and the spread of Christianity. 

It's so tempting to bury away the ugly things that happen to us. It's often easier to slap a smile and some Maybelliene on our faces in an effort to distract others from our weary hearts and restless souls. It's oh so convenient to rationalize away the injury to our minds and bodies. Is there a group of friends or a friend that can be trusted with our scars, for our mutual benefit?

Dearest Ladies, scars have a purpose. Scars attest that we are a work in progress. Scars are bearers of memories and stories. Scars are symbols of our testimonies. Scars are testaments to our survivorship and most importantly, God's provision, grace, and mercy.

Dearest Sisters, someone may need to see our scars in order to believe. Someone may need to hear our testimony to deepen their faith in God. Someone of us may need to bear our scars in our final blow to longtime battles with shame. Scars are important parts of our life's resumes. It's important to remind ourselves and others of ALL that God has brought us through and also of the glorious future that awaits us. 

While on safari in Eastern Africa, my traveling buddies and I felt comfortable and safe with our scarred safari guide. His big, glaring scars assured us that he has fought and won countless battles with predators in the African bush. His scars spoke of his experience, wisdom, bravery, strength, courage, and resilience. As we lay at night, under a vast starry sky, we often felt small and insignificant. We heard all manner of growls, groans, and shrieks. However, we felt confident that our guide had conquered all that lurked in the dark and he was able to protect and defend us, if necessary.

Sisters, Jesus is far more capable of protecting and defending us. Our scars are but proof that God is our strong tower and defense. Our scars proclaim that God is a faithful, righteous, redeeming, restoring, and renewing Heavenly Father. 

Take joy in celebrating, this weekend, our Lord's triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Take joy in partaking in history's greatest story. Take joy in celebrating the King of Kings. Have a happy Palm Sunday.

Love and blessings

Hugs