Touch – Fri 6th July 07

I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalm 139:14

Finally this week a few thoughts about touch, a sense that brings us into direct contact with the physical world and each other.

Gardeners just love to get their hands dirty and feel the texture of the soil.
Bakers delight in rolling up their sleeves and kneading dough.
Carpenters love to feel the texture of the wood.
Pianists revel in the way their fingers caress the ivories.
We marvel at the ability of the blind to read Braille.

Touch is involved in body language, and is reserved for those in our “inner circle” eg family and close friends. We use it to back up our words. We want to show love, concern and sympathy Sometimes we need that intimacy to clear the air and correct misunderstandings. Depending on the relationship it may be an arm round the shoulder, a hug, holding hands.

Jesus has called us to His inner circle.
John 15:15 says: ..I have called you friends, for everything I learned from the Father I have made known to you

In the gospels we read of how Jesus rolled up His sleeves and had a hands-on
ministry. He taught and healed and delivered.

Jesus longs to touch us, bring more and more healing to us and to reassure us of His closeness. We’re familiar with the song:
When I feel the touch of your hand upon my life –
It causes me to sing a song that I love you Lord.
So from deep within my spirit singeth unto you –
You are my King, you are my God and I love you Lord.

Jesus’ inner circle is not complete. Coming from a place of intimacy, our mission
is to reach out and touch the world as He did.