Isaiah 53, and Healing Bruises

Observation: Isaiah 53 is another of the "servant songs" contained in that book (we heard one of those as our first lesson on Sunday). This song declares that the servant will be called to suffer: to be despised, struck down, afflicted, bruised. This suffering will lead to healing for many. While the original text may have referred to the prophet himself, or to all of Israel personified, the early Church saw this as a prophecy for Jesus' passion.

Application: It should always be a shock to us that suffering can produce healing, even if the suffering is Christ's. When we begin to justify and rationalize the pain and suffering of others, or our own pain and suffering, we go down a slippery slope, and at the bottom is disregard for human life and flourishing. One of the most important insights I ever heard before entering ministry was from my home Bishop, Robert Rimbo: "The world has only one Savior, and you're not it."
Hear this, reader. Jesus went to the cross so you don't have to. You can't save others by suffering, and you shouldn't try. That's Jesus' job. Pain is part of life, and Jesus bears it with us. But if anyone tries to convince to stay in a situation that is hurting you--emotionally, spiritually or physically--that person is not of God. You do not have to grin and bear it, or take one for the team. Whoever it is you're trying to save, let Jesus do it. Be safe. Accept the love of Christ, who came that you--yes, YOU--might have life abundant.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for suffering with us and for us. Deliver us from needless pain. Help us to love and value ourselves as your children. Amen.