Today’s scripture: Matthew 4:23-25 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Robert Ferguson):
Many times I keep my cell phone set on vibrate. It’s useful at work and in class so that my ringing phone doesn’t disturb others. However, lately I have noticed that I will feel the vibration in my pocket either when my phone hasn’t vibrated or isn’t even in my pocket. I thought maybe I was just going crazy until I heard a guy mention it on a commercial. So I had to investigate. As it turns out, according to a report in USA Today, quite a few people have noticed the same thing. “Phantom vibrations,” some experts say, are an example of your mind playing tricks on you. That’s comforting.
That got me to thinking about phantom pain sensations, described as perceptions that an individual experiences from a limb or organ that is no longer physically part of the body. This phenomenon isn’t only associated with amputees but also with people who have lost a tooth or an eye. Not to be taken lightly, this problem is very real and painful to many people. But I find myself fascinated that even though a limb, body part, or organ has been removed from the body, the brain often reacts as if it is still there.
As I read today’s scripture, I can’t help but focus on the holistic aspect of the ministry of Jesus. Jesus had a three-fold ministry; preaching, teaching, and healing. Christ not only forgave sin but also healed every sickness or disease; none was too bad; none too hard.
As I reflected over my own struggles, sins, challenges, and huge mistakes it seemed that even though Christ has indeed forgiven my sins I still suffer from some of the symptoms of my ailment. I recently started seeing a therapist to talk through some tough situations in my life. As we have begun to peel back some layers and really address underlying issues, it has become clear to me that so much of how I react in certain situations is rooted in events that occurred in my life as a child. Even as I am writing this, I still make decisions based on learned methods of coping.
So even as Jesus has forgiven my sin and healed my soul there are still areas in my life where I continue to act as if I haven’t been healed at all. Have I forgotten that I have been forgiven and healed?
Thought for the day: Today Jesus teaches us that He is not only the forgiver of sins but also the healer of our souls. Let us walk in complete freedom, free of the pain of past sins. Jesus has saved you and healed you.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.