Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Holistic Healing that Christ Gives
Isaiah 42: 1-9
 
v5“..the Lord, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and what comes from it, who gives breath to the people upon it and spirit to those who walk in it.

 Healing is a word or idea that is routine for us today. Over the past year, it has become the main topic of our discussions, the root of social and political movements, and the focus point of many prayers. In today’s COVID-19 stricken world, it is arguably, the universal desire of every nation and people. As the world hurts and seeks for healing, this passage provides an assurance for us just as it did for the Israelites years ago.
 Isaiah uses the metaphor of a bruised reed and smoking flax. The bruised reed represents a fragile or weak physical state while the smoking flax represents a fireless spiritual state. In a time where the Israelites were uncertain and doubtful, Isaiah proclaims the coming of the Servant (Jesus) who will bring restoration and salvation. Instead of discarding, breaking, or extinguishing, we are gently cared for and fanned to flame by His Holy Spirit. We are reminded that the Lord has called us in righteousness and promised us the security of His hand. This is a promise that stands true today.
 Many of us have been blessed to experience, witness, or even deliver tremendous physical healing over the past year. We have seen advances in science and healthcare faster than ever before. However, we still face a devastating pandemic, drastic declines in mental health, and increased suicide rates. While we may be surrounded by physical weakness, hopelessness, and the fear of abandonment, we are reminded of the holistic healing of Jesus. Despite a broken and bruised state, God still has a purpose and need for us. As Christians, we must remember that we are a “covenant given to the people.” A covenant that God entrusts us to fulfill. A covenant that calls us to share the healing of Jesus and to fan the flame to those in darkness. A covenant which reminds us that we are Lighted to Lighten.
 As we are surrounded by the feelings of brokenness, purposelessness, and uncertainty, let us remind ourselves and others of the healing and salvation promised to us. As we go into this world of suffering in darkness, let’s take up the cross and fulfill God’s covenant given to the people. Let’s draw close and hold onto Him who promised to never let us go. Let us allow God to make us whole.

PRAYER
Dear Lord, thank You for the healing You have provided to us. We know that You have a purpose and need for us. Restore us and use us to fulfill Your covenant. Amen.
 
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
 “No matter what we may think, God values us and has a purpose for us.”
Gracious John
Immanuel MTC, TX
 
Christian Education Forum, Diocese of NAE of the Mar Thoma Church

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