Touch is essential to people experiencing God’s love. That can be anything from a chest or fist bump between real men, to a gentle pat on the back for a senior adult, or simply a loving hug for some one that is hurting.

As I was reading my morning devotional from Matthew 8:3 (Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man,) the words came to mind that was spoken to me not long ago from someone I greeted with a hug at the doors of our church; with tears in their eyes they said, “It has been so long since someone shown me kindness ”. On other occasions I have heard words like, “this is the only time in the week when I feel loved.”

We should remember that throughout Jesus’ time on earth He was always healing people through touch (Matthew 8:3, 8:15, 9:29, Luke 22:51…). Jesus didn’t have to touch them to heal them. He was God! He could have done it from a distance yet he chose to personally touch them. Throughout the book of Acts Jesus’ disciples; Peter, John and Paul, all used touch to heal. In scripture we are told “if anyone is sick call the elders together and lay hands on them and pray” (James 5:14).

Recently, I read the findings of the top researchers in the field of health, this is what they said, “Touch is one of the most essential elements of human development, a profound method of communication, a critical component of the health and growth… and a powerful healing force”

LifePoint has strategically placed friendly, extroverted, spirit filled people in our parking lots, at our front doors, and at our Sunday morning cafe. We realize that for so many people, Sunday mornings is the only time they experience the healing love of a physical touch.

Thank you Lord for touching me!

Pastor Larry