Healing Words (Part Two)

Jesus’ story—We are discovering some healing and nourishing words in our Bible. John Mark was well on the road to recovery when he heard the word “useful” applied to him in 2 Timothy 4:11. He had been labeled a quitter, but now he was needed and useful for ministry. Today we focus on words from the Mount of Transfiguration. In Matthew 17:5, we read, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!”

God the Father spoke these affirming words about His Son, Jesus. As the witnesses gazed on Jesus in all His visible glory, a voice was heard from heaven. It was God the Father blessing God the Son with wonderful words. These words were heard by disciples and patriarchs.

I have mentored half a dozen young men in recent years. In most cases they have never heard words like these from their earthly fathers. On the contrary, they heard wounding words. Critical and sarcastic words. What a model we have in God the Father. The first affirming word He used was “Beloved Son.” This is very personal for me. I was mentored in my early ministry years by a Pennsylvania pastor. The mentoring took place in person, by phone, and in letters. I have saved his letters for many years. Why? Because he was the first man to address his letters to me: Beloved Roy. He followed the example of God the Father.

But the text goes on to use the expression “well pleased.” This is the word eudokesa. It means to think well of someone. Not just pleased—well pleased! Those gathered on that mountaintop not only witnessed spectacular glory, but they heard unforgettable words. These are truly healing words. Gary Smalley and John Trent have reminded us of these words in their book The Blessing. They wrote of the custom of fathers in Jewish homes to make the holidays special. The father would rise and stand behind the chair of each son and daughter and speak good words about that child. Just like God the Father.

There are sons and daughters who have waited all of their lives for the blessing! To be told words like “I am proud of you” and “You are special in my eyes.” It is not too late for some to receive these healing words. For others, this blessing will start with your generation.

Next time we will explore the healing words found in the Old Testament story of Mephibosheth.