“Scars That Testify”
By Rev. Everett R. Kimble, Sr.
“‘But all who devour you will be devoured, and all your enemies will be sent into exile. All who plunder you will be plundered, and all who attack you will be attacked. I will give you back your health and heal your wounds,’ says the Lord.” – Jeremiah 30:16-17
When I was a little boy, I remember we always had a wood pile next to the house so that we would have wood to burn in our fireplaces. The one rule my mom had about that wood pile was I should never, ever play on it. I have told you all before, I was rambunctious as a kid so I would often, when mama left me with my siblings sneak onto that pile and play despite her warning. As fate would have it, one day my defiance led to me falling headfirst after my foot got caught on a board. I was dirty, a little embarrassed and afraid of what my mother would do if she found out. My intent was to hide my mishap from her but the sharp pain in my wrist turned out to be gash from a nail. The wound was so deep it scared me. I forgot about my plan and ran inside for someone to call my mom.
When she got home, she went straight to work on my arm to stop the bleeding and rushed me to the doctor. Once she was sure I would be ok she gave me a good tongue lashing and you know what else she gave me. I was hurt, but I remember that with love she quickly tended to my wound. I still have the scar from that mishap, and I think of my mom every time I look at it.
Many of us have been wounded, both physically and emotionally because of our rebellion and disobedience. The remnants of our brokenness are everywhere but the wonderful part about our relationship with God and our encouragement for today is God heals our wounds, but he leaves the scars. The scars are often ugly and intrusive, but they can serve as reminders of how far God has bought us and how blessed we are to have His grace and protection.
The Apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 12:9-11 9 Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. 10 That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
The truth is, not all physical injuries will heal completely, but through Christ we can be made emotionally and spiritually whole.
Have a beautiful, blessed, and bright Friday.
