(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
John 20:27 “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”
Far too often, followers of Jesus consider their story and are ashamed to share aspects of it. The story includes some pretty deep wounds and being real about those wounds is difficult.
However, as followers of Jesus, we are invited to follow His lead. After Jesus’ life, His death, and His resurrection, Jesus still had scars. Not only did He have these scars, but He was willing to reveal them to others. Why did He reveal these scars to others? So they would no longer doubt who He was. And perhaps to help them see that the scars are a reminder of God’s healing presence.
For those who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ, we too have scars. Not physical ones, but deeply spiritual and emotional scars. But we are not called to cover them up and pretend like they never existed. Nor are we to hide behind them and only allow our scars to be the only thing people see about us.
Instead, we are invited to include them as an essential part of our individual stories. They serve as a profound reminder that after our salvation, and even after experiencing God’s healing in our lives, the scars are still visible as a reminder of God’s healing presence.
READING & PRAYERS:
JOHN 20:24-29 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: Be honest: Do you hesitate to share some parts of your story because you don’t want to reveal some of the ‘scars’ you’ve experienced? How may sharing your story serve as a reminder – to you and others – of God’s healing presence in your life?
REAL LIFE PRACTICE: Write down a list of a few things that help you experience peace and contentment in life. Then consider creating a plan that leads to you saying “yes” to these things more regularly and “no” to others.
Take a Step: Remember to continue utilizing the One Minute Pause app throughout the week. If possible, begin to explore and practice the 3, 5 or 10 minute pause to more deeply root yourself in Christ.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I confess I sometimes hide my scars because I’m ashamed of decisions I’ve made. Today I pray that You will heal this shame as well and give me more confidence to share about Your healing presence in my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence)
south ridge blog 