PALMS
Pain And Love Mean Salvation
We tend to be a society that values flawless physical beauty and perfection. I find this ironic as none among us can fit into this category. We all have some bruises or blemishes no matter if we are taking an internal or external view. Sometimes I find myself wondering what stories lay behind the scars. Many mothers can attest to the willingness to endure the scarring of a cesarean delivery in order to bring life into this world. However, this act of love is quite minor compared to the action of love demonstrated by Jesus. Our Savior was scarred and suffered for us. Jesus had a crown of thorns placed on His head. Jesus carried His cross up the hill to Golgotha. Jesus was given vinegar to drink as He hung parched and dehydrated. Jesus was pierced in His side. Jesus was spat upon. Jesus was struck with a staff. Jesus was crucified leaving Him with physical scars. However, what affected Jesus on the outside is the basis for the opportunity for change for us on the inside.
The next time you see someone with a scar that may first strike you as unsightly, take a moment to think on the story from long ago. Scars can be reminders. It is important to remember that Jesus was inflicted with pain and nailed in His hands that left scars in his palms. We must never forget what transpired so many thousands of years ago and what it means to our salvation. We must always remember that Jesus endured pain because He loves us and how that action translates into the gift of life through salvation. It was pain and love meaning salvation.
John 19:6
As soon as the chief priests and their officials saw him, they shouted, “Crucify! Crucify!” For the extended story read: John 19:1-37, Matthew 27:27-44, or Luke 24:38-40.