Beneath the Surface, deep within the unseen ... -

Beneath the surface, deep within the unseen, disease had attacked my body. At its discovery, there were no outward signs. Nothing signaled reason for concern. My smooth skin gave no hint of trouble. Yet medical expertise discovered what grew beyond seeing eyes.

Months of medical procedures followed. The roller coaster road of what would be next kept us on an ominous thrill ride we never dreamed of taking. Some days were met with victorious highs only to be followed by plunges into the depths of disappointment. Then the long climb back up would begin again. We met sudden twists and turns, at times gaining momentum and at other times thankful for an opportunity to catch our breath.

The ride is beginning to slow now. We are not quite to the end, but the end is nearing. Thankfully, most of the pain has eased now. Only the physical evidence of previous trauma remains. I am scarred. The incisions are many and long. My once smooth skin has transformed to an irregular terrain.

My body will continue healing the scars on my skin. Their now prominent appearance will diminish in time. In the days to come, perhaps some near me will see the evidence of previous suffering. Many may never see or know. Yet it is likely even fewer will ever recognize the inner struggles that have taken place.

Perhaps we would do well to ponder the scars Jesus bears. “His scars identified who he was and what he had done for the disciples, and us, through his suffering atonement (John 20:19-22). Scars are a testimony of God’s healing in our suffering, and his mercy and faithfulness through our trials.”¹

Consider also “Jacob, who carried the scar of his encounter with the angel of God for the rest of his life—a reminder to him of God’s blessing and faithfulness.” ¹ And “the Samaritan woman at the well, whose outward lifestyle did not reflect the inner void that Jesus was able to identify and fill.” ¹

“ … people need hope like they need air … go give it to them.” ²

The outward scarring on my body pales in comparison to the scars on my soul. Careless actions, misplaced words, overlooked opportunities, and a myriad of challenging life experiences have bruised and beaten me within. Such is the journey of all who live on the earth.

My medical journey has led me to wonder about the hidden, secretly tucked away inner workings of those around me. As with smooth, elastic, and lovely skin, how many seemingly beautiful people we come in contact with might be battling an undetected inner disease? What might the inner spirit be fighting that we cannot see? An unforgiving heart, a wounded and infected soul? And how many are scarred from the many painful traumas life freely hands out? A broken relationship? A breach of trust? Sudden disasters … unplanned circumstances … undesired outcomes … A fight against an addiction that brings temporary pleasure while drowning out unbearable pain?

A new day …

Our journey through life will lead us on roads of highs and lows, twists and turns. Those travelers we share experiences with will have their own triumphs and trials. Yet how might our conversations, actions and attitudes be different if we could see not only the physical result of their struggles, but also the scars borne on their souls?

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

Galatians 6:10 niv

Hope is like the sun, which as we journey toward it,

casts the shadow of our burden behind us. ²