Infirm Yet Raised to Grace: A Brief Contemplation

As he walked past me on a sidewalk, a man generously said, “I hope your legs heal.” What a generous and compassionate wish.

I thanked him, was filled with joy, and continued along the way.

This is not the first time that someone has petitioned on my behalf for my body to be healed. I have had many strangers wish and petition on my behalf from well wishes as this gentleman to others actively pleading with the Lord in prayer, yet in my pain or suffering rest comes in the presence of Christ, the grace he imparts in the suffering.

The brokenness of my body is a daily, momentary reminder of the brokenness of humanity and my own sinfulness. As I live with a dull pain, I am reminded that Christ’s grace in me is sufficient (2 Cor. 12:9-10). Christ not I, upholds my being (Col. 1:17)

I am grateful for the lame body, for in its weakness I am compelled to taste the lifegiving waters of the Father’s grace and the power of Christ. The weakness of my body diminishes my own sufficiency, my own pride, my own ego; for Christ not I, upholds my being.

I am confident my body will be healed in the resurrection (Ro. 8:23; Rev. 21:3-4). Until then, I longingly rest in the grace of the Father’s provision through the Spirit of Christ in me.