"And they crucified him. . ." Matthew 27:35
Crucifixion was undeniably one of the cruelest and most barbaric forms of punishment in the ancient world. It was a form of punishment used by the Roman authorities for the most serious offenders.
Once the offender had reached the location where the crucifixion was to be held, he was laid on a crossbeam with his arms outstretched.
Then a soldier would drive a five-inch nail through each of his wrists — not the palms of his hands — into the crossbeam.
This may be one of the most important details to remember about the crucifixion of Jesus: It left Jesus's wrists scarred. Scarred like the wrists of those who purposely injure themselves.
Each year, one in five females and one in seven males participate in self-injury.
However, truly accurate statistics of self-harm are difficult to come by because most participants conceal their injuries.
Cutting the skin is probably the most common form of self-injury. The most common places on the body to cut are the wrists, upper arms, inner thighs and upper chest.
But the scars on Jesus's wrists didn't stop Him from changing the world.
The crucifixion of Jesus was to fulfill prophecies. He was the perfect sacrifice for the sins of the world.
John 3:16-18 explains that God loved the world enough to sacrifice His only son to erase the sins of the world. Jesus's death changed the world by providing forgiveness for all sin.
Just because you're scarred doesn't mean you're worthless.
When we are faced with difficult times in our lives, we may become scarred emotionally and even physically. It's important to recognize that scars are proof that you survived.
Scars are a natural part of the body's healing process. Jesus's scars are what allowed Him to change the world and erase our sins.
No matter what sins you have committed, there is a loving God that has forgiven you.
Jesus became scarred himself so that we don't have to purposely scar ourselves for forgiveness. You can rise above the problems you face and make a difference in the world.
Scars should remind you of where you've been, but they shouldn't dictate where you're going.
If you or someone you know are struggling with self-injury, talk to God. You can also contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
