I noticed my 7 inch colon cancer scar this morning. It has faded significantly over the last 7 years, but it is still definitely visible. I guess I've gotten used to it, because it doesn't usually stand out to me the way it did today. I looked at it closely, trying to remember how it first looked when the staples had been removed. So much healing happened between then and now, some without my notice. But, I will always have my 7 inch scar, my survivor mark, as a reminder of a battle fought and won.
We all have scars. Some physical, some emotional. Some visible, and some deeply buried. Some are from old wounds, and some are freshly made. Some from sticks and stones, and some from careless words. We live in a world that is filled with hurting people, and hurting people hurt people. There is no escaping being hurt, but there is healing!
We have choices. Victim or victor? Bitter or better? Struggler or survivor? Fear or forgiveness? Will we be identified by our wounds or will we become stronger because of them? It is a daily choice for me, and I admit that there have been plenty of days when I have chosen poorly.
The scar on my abdomen reminds me to be grateful for the works of restoration that God has done (and is doing) in my life as I choose to let Him work in me. As I surrender the hurts of the past and allow divine forgiveness to flow in and through me. As I let go of the future and trust the God who knows my heart to make a way for me. As I stand in the face of fear and receive great love and joy instead. As I choose obedience to God rather than my own way.
Over and over, God restores the wounds and the scars when I choose His way. And I promise that He will do the same for you!
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.