Here is the Doctor
I have spent a lot of time in medical facilities recently. I have a little experience being in those spaces from my early career as a nurse and subsequent time in ministry. One of the most common themes in those hallways of help and healing is this: waiting on the doctor. Sometimes it is instant. Other times, you wait for hours to come face to face with the one who knows medicine and directs, prescribes, and performs treatment.
Jesus, during his time on earth, said that he was anointed by God to come and heal humanity (Luke 4:18). Moreover, he explained in the Gospel of Matthew that he came to bring healing for the one disease that plagues all of humanity. Sin.
Matthew 9:10–13 (ESV)
10 And as Jesus reclined at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and were reclining with Jesus and his disciples. 11 And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” 12 But when he heard it, he said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. 13 Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”
A quote has circulated for years. Theologians have debated the origin and modified the words to a degree. Basically, it goes something like this: "The church is not a museum for saints, but a hospital for sinners.” If that statement is true, the theme of the church is simple. Here is the doctor. His name is Jesus. Thankfully, it isn’t a game of waiting for one of dozens of doctors to arrive and find time to help with each individual ailment. He is present, ready, and able to restore right now.
I am reminded of the old hymn we sometimes sing that proclaims this truth.
The Great Physician now is near,
The sympathizing Jesus;
He speaks the drooping heart to cheer,
Oh, hear the voice of Jesus! Sweetest note in seraph song;
Sweetest name on mortal tongue;
Sweetest carol ever sung:
Jesus, blessed Jesus!
The great Physician now is here
Author: William Hunter (1851)
Scripture tells us, as healed ones, gathered together as a body of worshipful people, our mission in service to our healer is simple. Get people to the doctor (Matthew 28:18-20). Jesus is the great physician.
Let the work begin.
Eyes up,
Ryan
