Scars

Bible Reading: John 20:24-29

“Mom,” Nick said hesitantly one day, “did you…uh…did you ever think about having plastic surgery to fix all those scars on your face?” For as long as Nick could remember, there had been ugly red scars on his mother’s face and hands. He was used to them and hardly noticed them, but some kids in his class had asked what was wrong with her and made jokes about the way she looked.

Mom put her hand up to her face. “I had plastic surgery years ago,” she said. “Maybe doctors could do a better job now, but it would be very expensive.”

“I know you got those scars in a fire,” Nick said. “I sorta remember hearing something about it years ago, but I can’t remember what happened. Couldn’t you get out? You never talk about it.”

Mom hesitated. “When you were just a little baby, our house caught on fire,” she said. “You were in your crib, and that whole area went up in flames. I ran in and grabbed you and wrapped you up in blankets. I’m so thankful I was able to shelter you as I ran out of the house. We both were all right, but as you can see, my hands and face were burned very badly.”

Tears came to Nick’s eyes. “Oh, Mom,” he said, “you got those scars saving me? I didn’t know that! Knowing you loved me so much makes me love you more than ever!”

Mom put her arms around Nick and squeezed him tight. “I love you too,” she said. “And maybe my scars can help you understand how much Jesus loves you. We’re all helpless sinners—we’re as helpless as babies and can’t save ourselves, but Jesus came to rescue us. He suffered and died on a cross to pay the price of our sins. His body was scarred where a spear was thrust into His side and where nails pierced His hands and feet. He went through that so we could be saved and have eternal life with Him, and He’ll carry those scars forever.”

“Wow,” said Nick. “Jesus really does love us, and His scars show us how much!” – Harry C. Trover

How About You?

Did you know that Jesus suffered and died for you? He died on the cross so that everyone could have their sins forgiven. That means He died to save you because He loves you. Have you put your trust in Him as your Savior? Don’t wait any longer. Trust Him today, and then thank Him for His great sacrifice. (To learn more, click the blue “Good News” in the column to the right.)

Today’s Key Verse: 1 John 4:19 We love Him because He first loved us. (NKJV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Jesus died for your sins