The studies show that infants need loving arms to care for them and to touch them so that they are nurtured. In fact a touch, a hug has proven to be healing in people who are alone or lonely. But nowadays there is greater need to be on guard. Even in the churches. Thus, I suggest you gather up all the hugs you can by very close friends and family- and then camp out in the loving arms of Jesus. There is no safer place. There is no other place where healing, love, mercy and grace flow. We need the touch of the Savior in our lives, we need to seek Him with our hearts and be overcome with His love. Never forget the importance of the human touch- however be wise. I believe that is why Paul kept encouraging the saints in the early church to love and mentor young believers- it was a way the love of Christ flowed through the church.
How long has it been that you hugged your family member? How long has it been that you placed your hand on the shoulder of a senior adult at church and extended love? The connection from Christ through you to others if very important. In the past I have heard people make remarks like, “those people are not very friendly.” Indeed that is possible even in the church- but sometimes is you and me that are to extend loving arms of care.
Want to see a great story of loving arms opened wide?
The Parable of the Lost Son
11 He also said: “A man had two sons. 12 The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of the estate I have coming to me.’ So he distributed the assets [c] to them. 13 Not many days later, the younger son gathered together all he had and traveled to a distant country, where he squandered his estate in foolish living. 14 After he had spent everything, a severe famine struck that country, and he had nothing. 15 Then he went to work for one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. 16 He longed to eat his fill from the carob pods the pigs were eating, but no one would give him any. 17 When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired hands have more than enough food, and here I am dying of hunger! 18 I’ll get up, go to my father, and say to him, Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight. 19 I’m no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired hands.’ 20 So he got up and went to his father. But while the son was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion. He ran, threw his arms around his neck,and kissed him. 21 The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight. I’m no longer worthy to be called your son.’
22 “But the father told his slaves, ‘Quick! Bring out the best robe and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Then bring the fattened calf and slaughter it, and let’s celebrate with a feast, 24 because this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!’ So they began to celebrate.
