“Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick” (Matt. 9:12). Even though we are weak, sickly, broken, and sinful people, we must never lose hope and begin to fear that we are worthless in the eyes of heaven… Indeed, our infirmities are often a blessing in disguise, a gift that reveals our need…
If you are sinful and sick, you are invited to come before the Master for life and rescue from the power of sin. Take your place among the lepers, the tax collectors, the outcasts… you will never hear Him criticize you or shame you for sincerely coming to Him for healing of your sinful state… “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10).
Yeshua is the Good Shepherd (הָרעֶה הַטּוֹב) who leaves his flock of 99 sheep in order to find the one sheep who is lost (Matt. 18:12-14). He is always like that – He is always seeking and saving the lost sinner; He is always offering life and healing to those who have been made sick with the plague of sin. Thank God we have a Savior who seeks us out in our desperate need!
- Ezek. 34:16a page (pdf)
“Grace is not looking for good men whom it may approve, for it is not grace but mere justice to approve goodness. [Rather] it is looking for condemned, guilty, speechless and helpless men whom it may save, sanctify and glorify.” – C. I. Scofield
King David wrote, “You have given those who fear you a banner (נֵּס לְהִתְנוֹסֵס) for the sake of the truth” (Psalm 60:4), which Rashi interprets as, “You have given hardships and suffering to those who fear you to elevate them in the way.” Indeed the word nes (נֵּס) can mean “banner” (as on the mast of a ship), a “sign” (or miracle), or a “test” (nisayon). God tests those who fear Him in order to help them become a miraculous sign to the world at large. Ultimately, the sign or miracle is the gift of Messiah’s suffering on our behalf and His resurrection for our justification (Isa. 11:10). Even in the face of our enemies who have breached the land, we have the promise of victory in Adonai Nissi (יְהוָה נִסִּי), God my Miracle.
May you, broken and contrite one, hear the word of His hope calling out for your soul… He is your Shepherd, your Healer, and your Miracle. May you come beneath His banner of truth and love to find eternal refuge…. Amen.
- Isa. 40:11 page (pdf)