There is something special about touch. With a simple touch of the hand we can convey empathy, sympathy, love, kindness, concern. It is usually in conjunction with a look or a word, but not necessarily. If we want to minister like Jesus did, with a look, a word, and a touch we would do well to give thought to what a touch can say. Of course everyone is not comfortable with another touching them so we must be careful of that as well.
When I consider this scenario--Jesus taking the children in His arms I need to look at what was happening. People were bringing their children to Jesus to have Him touch them. We have seen this in current times as well--I'm thinking of the pope, a president or dignitary. Jesus was special to the masses, even those who didn't realize He was God's Son. So, as the people were bringing the children to Jesus, His disciples were turning them away. They were telling the people in essence, Jesus is too important for this or too busy for this. How does Scripture say Jesus responded? He was indignant! And He took the children in His arms. What did His hug say? How important you are, how special, that you are cared for and cherished.
When we contemplate ministering like Jesus, with a look of love and understanding, with a word of encouragement and with a touch we must remember the value of a simple touch.
A simple touch to a grieving mother says, "I care about your anguish." A simple touch to a homeless person says, "I see you. You are not invisible." A simple touch to a lost child says, "You are not alone. I will help you." A simple touch to me in my moment of need says that you care.
What will your simple touch say to the encounter the Holy Spirit brings your way today say? How will you minister like Jesus did through a simple touch?
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