The Mark of the Nails

Jesus showed his disciples, his hands and his side. And later, he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelief, but believe’. St Thomas Aquinas said Jesus’ wounds are a testament to his humanity. Hans Balthazar, a Swiss Catholic theologian, and one of the most influential figures in 20th century Catholic theology, viewed Christ’s wounds, as symbols of his solidarity with humanity in its suffering.

This suggests that growth, progress, and triumph often come at the cost of struggle, sacrifice, and suffering. This concept resonates with the human experience of overcoming obstacles, learning from failures, and persevering through adversity. There is no victory in life without wounds. We are redeemed through Christ’s suffering and resurrection. The wounds of Christ are symbols of both the suffering endured for humanity’s salvation, and His victory over sin and death.

As Easter people we are called to come out of the tombs and closed doors of our lives. But we do so carrying our wounds. I think of the loss of loved ones that leave us in deep grief. I speak of this because it has been my experience. This grief can immobilize us and keep us trapped in tombs and behind closed doors. The Resurrection calls us to come out and leave the tombs empty. This does not mean we are abandoning our loved one. We will always carry the wounds of their loss with us.

Just as Christ emerged from the tomb with His wounds glorified, so too we can emerge from our own places of sorrow, our hearts broken but filled with the promise of New Life. Our loved ones remain with us, their memories etched into our souls, guiding us forward as we navigate the journey of healing and redemption. Let us embrace the Resurrection. We leave behind the darkness of despair and step into the radiant dawn of a New Life in Christ. Our wounds are not burdens but testaments to the enduring power of love.

What are the wounds you carry with you? What must you do to carry these wounds but not let them keep you trapped in tombs and behind closed doors?

NOTICE

Founding Member Launch

As a trainer and now as a deacon I have discovered that many persons need help in transitioning from one life stage to another, starting a new venture, or starting over.

It could be retirement, starting a new job or career, starting a small business, dealing with the loss of a loved one, onset of a chronic illness, the break up of a relationship or the startup of a new relationship.

I believe I can help with my more than 20 years experience in ministry, coaching, consulting and training. I can assist with motivation and step-by-step guidance in spiritual, mental, emotional, career and business challenges.

I am starting a members only online community to guide and support you through such transitions. Join me for a founding members launch. Hope to see you at the Zoom meeting.

I am inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Founding Member Launch

This coming Thursday 7:00pm on Zoom.

Time: Apr 11, 2024 07:00 PM America/Port_of_Spain

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84917896113?pwd=YWdMTG1QLzlXKzd6R0Jpdk1YOFFvQT09

Meeting ID: 849 1789 6113

Passcode: 931907