It is hard to read Scripture and not take healing seriously. Open any of the gospels, and it only takes a few chapters before you read about Jesus healing someone. Israel’s Messiah was always expected to be a healer, which is why it makes perfect sense that when John the Baptist sent disciples to ask Jesus if he was “the one who is to come,” Jesus sent a report back to John about various ways he healed people — “the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, those with a skin disease are cleansed, the deaf hear” (Matthew 11:2-5).
Christian leaders and congregations are called to do the courageous work of healing. By “healing,” we do not mean the sensationalized, scripted religious performances portrayed in movies. Healing is real change. To heal is to make someone or something whole again. Physical well-being is part of healing, but authentic healing is more comprehensive and inclusive.
Not only are individuals in need of healing — families, congregations, neighborhoods, cities, the environment and social systems need healing, too. Parents estranged from their children long for emotional and relational healing. Families who face financial challenges understand the need for economic healing. We need systemic healing when school boards fail to seek equitable solutions to educate the whole community.
This is not the time for Christian leaders and congregations to be indifferent or complacent. We can be healers. We can help communities heal when we make housing affordable. We can create welcoming environments for those who struggle with mental or emotional wellbeing. We can equip children and youth with the skills and wisdom to manage conflict, making a long-term investment in the work of healing. We all know what’s broken. Now is the time for God’s healing.
