John 20:25
English Standard Version (ESV)
25 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe.”
John 20:27
English Standard Version (ESV)
27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands (the scars); and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe.” italics added
Galatians 6:17
English Standard Version (ESV)
17 From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.
The only man-made things in heaven are the scars on Jesus. Why were the scars not removed from Jesus? Let’s ponder this…I have no idea why they were not removed, but here are some things to consider as we think about scars.
What are some things that scars can tell and teach us?
- A scar may be evidence of healing! Big test = Big testimonies, Huge messes = Huge messages. We may have physical or emotional wounds that are “bleeding” right now and with the love of Jesus we can experience healing. Our healing results in a scar that makes us relatable to others who see our scars and believe that healing is possible for the same wound they have. A scar can bring hope to those still looking for healing.
- The scars of others should be lessons to us all. In Jesus’ case He was victorious over sin and death and His scars are a lesson and reminder of that battle and His victory.
- Reminders of God’s love & faithfulness: Jesus relates to us while demonstrating His love for us. God did not just speak the words “I love you” to us in a book, instead the scars of Jesus remind us of God’s love for us. John 3:16
English Standard Version (ESV)
For God So Loved the World
16 “For God so loved the world,that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life
4) Every story can bring God glory. Have you thought about how your “scar” can bring God glory? Our scars have stories to tell, what’s your story?