Finding the Help and Healing You Need

Isaiah 53:4 “Surely He took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered Him punished by God, stricken by Him, and afflicted.” (NIV)

Dear Kids,

Have you ever seen someone endure deep pain? When we love someone we are willing to do whatever is necessary to help in times of hurt. But often there is nothing we can do except be there and extend comfort and encouragement. If only we could find the help and healing they need.

The Struggles of Entering the World

Last week we celebrated a joyous occasion! On Thursday, September 10^th Emily gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. We are so thankful for the safe arrival of Archie Jordan Shaw. But his entrance into the world was not without some struggle. As I watched and encouraged Emily through the many hours of labor, I empathized with her in the painful process. I had gone through this five times, but it was so different to be on the other end. So many times I wished I could have taken her place and spared her the pain. But that was not possible.

As I watched, waited, and prayed I thought about life. All of us come into the world through the difficult birth process, but the struggles don’t stop there.  Every person will face various trials throughout the years of his or her sojourn on earth. Sometimes others can help alleviate the pain and sometimes they can’t. But there is nothing any human can do to lift the burdensome penalty of sin we are all born under. That is something that only God can do.

In Jesus We Find the Help and Healing We Need

God loved us so much that He sent His only Son to help us. Jesus took up our pain and bore our suffering brought on by sin. He was pierced for our transgressions and crushed for our iniquities. He took the punishment we deserved and through His wounds we are healed. Those who believe in Jesus no longer experience the pain of spiritual death. But instead they are born into His family and will live forever.

I am grateful that the pains of childbirth to bring Archie Jordan into the world have been eclipsed by the celebration of his birth. And I pray that someday he will understand the great gift God has provided for him in Jesus. Life in a sinful world will often be difficult, but in Jesus we can find the help and healing we need.

Love,

Mama (Nana)