By Peggy Michael, archived

But he was wounded for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his bruises we are healed.

One Good Friday, many of us took a journey with Christ. The setting was simple. Objects were arranged to provide excellent visuals for us to ponder Christ’s last week on Earth.

Each focal point invited us to consider the events of his agony. One compelled me to stop and wait with the Lord as he opened new understanding. For a time, I stood before the table that depicted the love he offers me through his suffering.

I looked at the strong cords placed there. I studied the ropes that represented the cruel bindings of our innocent Savior. I looked within my heart and saw sins that hurt him also. Then I saw names and faces of other suffering people I love.

My conscience burned with awareness, such that I reached down and symbolically tugged at the cords to loosen them. I asked God to use me to free others who are in bondage, feel helpless, alienated, and neglected.

I saw before me the face of one young man whom I love like a son. I remembered our last visit, when we greeted each other with hands pressed to the thick glass of the jail wall that kept us apart. I remembered that Christ died so prison walls could be broken down and people could be free.

I promised God at that table I would give the strength of my life to help bring wholeness to those in bondage. Then I walked toward the quiet sanctuary where I knew God was waiting for me—and for those I carried in my heart.

Prayer Phrase

“See, I am making all things new” (Revelation 21:5).

Weaving a Life

Hold, or imagine yourself holding, a piece of patterned cloth. Examine it carefully. Notice overlapping threads, mingling colors that form the design. Write a journal entry or meditate about the threads and patterns of your life. What design do you see? How does the life pattern you are weaving create justice and wholeness in God’s world? What new pattern is God calling you to weave?

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.