Daily Bible Reflections

July 4, 2011
LIFE-GIVING TOUCH

“My daughter has just died; but come and place your hands on her, and she will live.”– Matthew 9:18

While on the road, I would often see a man walking aimlessly on the street, covered in dirt and grime, talking to himself. We refer to the likes of them as “taong grasa” (greasy man) and people who are in clean clothes would often walk away from them in fear or disgust. Who would dare touch them, when we often avoid their gaze?
Many more people in the world feel like they are garbage because no one is brave enough to touch them. They do not receive the healing love that comes from a simple pat on the back, a power hug, a back rub to let them know they are not alone and that someone cares. Studies show that we need at least four hugs a day in order to survive. No wonder many walk like they are already dead. How blessed are we when we receive hugs from our family and friends, the same healing touch that is able to bring the dead to life.
Like Jesus, we can heal others by acknowledging people’s presence and touching them. We need to express our love for the broken and the wounded with our healing embrace. Marjorie Duterte (marjorie.travels@gmail.com)
4
REFLECTION:
Who can I touch today and bring to wholeness?

Jesus, let me be Your healing hands today. Help me to be brave enough to give Your life-giving touch.