Have you ever wondered why Jesus kept the scars from his crucifixion? After his resurrection, death had been defeated. The grave had lost its claim. Surely Jesus had the power to make the scars vanish as well.
But they didn’t. When Jesus came to his frightened followers in John 20, he still carried the marks of crucifixion in his hands, feet, and side. He even invited Thomas to see them, touch them, and understand what they meant.
Peace had come—but at a price.
On Memorial Day, we pause to remember that peace often comes with scars. Behind every freedom enjoyed, every quiet morning, every ordinary gathering, there are stories of sacrifice. Some scars are visible. Others are carried in hearts, minds, and families forever changed.
Yet, Memorial Day isn’t simply about loss. It’s about remembering that love comes at a cost, peace makes demands, and forgiveness isn’t free.
I find the fact that resurrection didn’t erase the wounds of Good Friday comforting. Because many of us carry scars, too. Grief leaves marks. Betrayal leaves them. So do hard seasons, unanswered prayers, and painful memories. We often wish God would erase them altogether. And yet … they shape us and define us. They are witnesses to our love.
Jesus kept his scars and still spoke the words, “Peace be with you.” That was, and is, a peace that has walked through the valley of the shadow of death.
This Memorial Day, perhaps the call isn’t merely to celebrate peace, but to honor its cost. To remember those with wounds seen and unseen. To pray for those still carrying them. And to claim the peace of Christ offered in love and forged in sacrifice.
Peace be with you.
