HOW DO MEN and women “clap their hands and shout with a voice of joy to God?” (Ps. 47:2) in the midst of pain, suffering, heartache, and throbbing despair? Is it possible to endure and eventually move beyond the bleak and melancholy landscape of evil and destruction?
After Saul/Paul’s conversion on the road to Damascus, Jesus said to Ananias, “I myself will show him how much he himself has to suffer for my name” (Acts 9:16). Anyone God uses significantly is always deeply wounded. It is no coincidence that the title of the latest book by Michael Ford on the life and ministry of Henri Nouwen is Wounded Prophet. We are, each and every one of us, insignificant people whom God has called and graced to use in a significant way. In his eyes, the high-profile ministries are no more significant than those that draw little or no attention and publicity. On the last day, Jesus will look us over not for medals, diplomas, or honors, but for scars.
-Brennan Manning