This week we focus on the Lenten theme of meditating on the wounds of Christ.
Words of Reflection
It’s pretty amazing that one of the Scripture passages we turn to most often during Lent and Holy Week as we reflect on the sacrifice of Christ was written generations before Jesus was even born:
“But he was pierced for our transgressions,
he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was on him,
and by his wounds we are healed.”—Isaiah 53:5 (NIV)
These familiar words from Isaiah are so precise and specific that they could have been written in the aftermath of the crucifixion, but they weren’t. Like most Old Testament prophecies these words operate on multiple levels, to be sure, but they paint a clear picture of God’s “suffering servant” whose wounds lead to our healing. The language is intense, and even though this verse is only 29 words in this English translation, it is packed with meaning and spiritual depth.
Here’s an interesting experiment that provides us with a unique way of reflecting on this verse: read it multiple times out loud, and each time you read it emphasize different words. The first time through, emphasize the words that refer to Christ: “he,” “him,” and “his.” Then read it again, putting the emphasis on what Christ suffered: “pierced,” “crushed,” “punishment,” and “wounds.” Then read it a third time, emphasizing our presence in this event: “our,” “us,” and “we.” Finally, read it a fourth time and note the shift halfway through from the things that are taken away and the things that are received: “transgressions,” “iniquities,” “peace,” and “healed.”
As you read prayerfully in this way, note your reactions. What movement do you notice in your soul as you read each time? What does it stir you to think about the sacrifice of Jesus? About his wounds? About yourself?
Isn’t it amazing to think that 29 words written so long before Christ can bring us closer to the cross and help us understand better the wounds of Jesus?
Because he was pierced, because he was crushed, we have peace and we are healed.
Scripture for Meditation:
Yet it was the Lord’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the Lord makes his life an offering for sin, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the Lord will prosper in his hand.
After he has suffered, he will see the light of life and be satisfied; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities.
—Isaiah 53:10-11 (NIV)
Song: By His Wounds
He was pierced for our transgressions
He was crushed for our sins
The punishment that brought us peace was upon Him
And by His wounds by His wounds
We are healedWe are healed by Your sacrifice
In the life that You gave
We are healed for You paid the price
By Your grace we are saved
We are savedWhat can wash away my sin?
Nothing but the blood of Jesus
David Nasser | Mac Powell
© 2007 Meaux Mercy; Redemptive Art Music; Kobalt Music Copyrights SARL
Questions for Contemplation:
How have you experienced healing and peace as a result of Jesus’ sacrifice? Spend some time in prayer naming to God the ways you have seen the efficacy of Christ’s woundedness in your own life.
In what ways are you still pleading with God for healing and peace? As you contemplate the wounds of Jesus, give thanks for the ways in which he knows and understands your longing and lament.
Offer the phrase “by his wounds we are healed” as a breath prayer. If you’re unfamiliar with breath prayer, simply sit in stillness and prayerful attentiveness and take slow, deep breaths. As you breathe in, offer in silent prayer the words “by his wounds,” then as you breathe out, offer in silent prayer the words “we are healed.” Try this for a few minutes and allow the powerful truth of this verse to saturate your soul. This kind of prayer is a wonderful way to meditate on Scripture, finding a short phrase that splits well into two parts which can be prayed while breathing in and out.