Many of us are hurting in one way or another, but for every hurt there is a way to find healing together. Fr. Mark-Mary shows how.
When Thomas doubted that Jesus had been resurrected, the wounded Jesus came to him and the disciples. For some reason, Jesus did not lose his wounds in his resurrected body. We can contemplate that mystery, but one truth about it stands out: Jesus knew that his wounds could bring healing. In this case, they could heal Thomas’ doubt.
Just as the resurrected wounds of Jesus can bring healing, so can our wounds. Thomas said, “unless I place my finger in his side … ” and we all know from experience that many people are the same way. Not only do many people require evidence before they accept some truth. Many times they need to see the proof of suffering, which verifies that the one who suffered was willing to endure it to prove their love. This is why St. Paul said “Faith is the evidence of things unseen,” and why Tertullian said, “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church.”
Others can draw closer to us when they see the vulnerability of our wounds, because our wounds reveal our humility and humanity—our humility to accept our humanity.
If our wounds are redeemed by Christ, others can recognize them and find healing too.
Whether it’s a parent who loses a child, someone hurt by gossip, a person who lost their job, or an alcoholic going through AA—as painful as their struggle is, their unique pain helps them relate and walk with others who have experienced great tragedy.
God wants to heal whatever your wound may be.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Romans 8:28
What you’re struggling with is going to help someone else in the future in ways you may not see right now. You’re going to be able to give faith, hope, and love to them if you just let Christ redeem those wounds. Let’s have faith in the resurrected wounds of Christ and heal together.
Meet Fr. Mark-Mary
Father Mark-Mary was ordained as a Franciscan Friar of the Renewal (CFR) in 2018 and lives at a friary in the Bronx.
The mission of the CFRs is to wholeheartedly embrace Jesus through fidelity to the Church and her Sacraments. Paired with their commitment to prayer, contemplation, and study of Sacred Scripture, the CFRs serve those around them, especially the poor, in the footsteps of Christ.
Discover beautiful music from the CFRs here.