Scars: Repurposing ImperfectionSample

John 20:27 (NIV) says , "Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe."" Can you picture Jesus showing Thomas His scars? Scars tell stories of our victories. The scars on Jesus's resurrected body were proof of His resurrection and victory over death. Just as Jesus used His scars as proof that God raised Him from the dead, we should also use our scars as evidence of our victory in Christ. Are you often overwhelmed by feelings of shame when you think about your sinful past? Are you trying to hide your history from everyone? Do you find yourself wishing you never made some past choices? It is time to reflect on your past with new eyes and overcome shame. Consider this: The wages of sin is death. The enemy planned to destroy us through our wrong choices, but we are here today because God's mercy and grace delivered us from destruction. The scars on Jesus's hands and side are also testaments of our victory. The victory we obtained should be the center of our attention. Just like Jesus used His scars as a proof of His resurrection, our sinful or shameful past can be used as proof that God saves and delivers from destruction. When I remember my shameful past, this hymn comes to mind: Amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now am found, was blind, but now I see. When I remember my shameful past, I thank God for saving me, and I see how my mistakes have made me more compassionate. I pray that you will give thanks to God for your salvation when you remember your past misdeeds. I pray that you will courageously testify of God’s saving grace. It is time to re-purpose every mistake or shameful past. If you can, take a moment and sing the hymn "Amazing Grace".