Humans have a need for touch in their lives. Pastor Franklin mentioned a study of babies in orphanages long ago that had all their needs taken care of but were not held. They cried and reached out to be picked up. When that need to be touched was not met, sadly, many of them began to die for no apparent reasons.

Ever since Adam and Eve were formed by God’s hands, as humans we long for touch in our lives. Both from people and from God. Today’s scripture reminds us that our high priest is touched by our weakness. Jesus was moved to compassion for us throughout his ministry on earth. The Holy Spirit continues to touch our lives as we draw near to Him. The touch of God helps us to know Him, feel His love for us, and know His will and calling for our lives. The psalmist penned in Psalm 42:1 “as the deer pants for the water so my soul longs after thee.” This longing is only satisfied by the touch of God. Today’s church needs this longing stirred up lest we become stagnant, and indifferent.

Pastor Franklin also shared another study that showed that 44% of generation “Z“ admitted to a deep sense of loneliness. Although many have tons of “friends” on social media they often feel lost, insignificant, and disconnected. Social Media gives a false sense of connection in today’s society lacking the personal touch that is essential to the human experience.  

As Christians we can make a difference in someone’s life by being physically present for them. We can instill worth and be the hands of Christ in sharing a hug in their distress, or our hug can celebrate in their joy! We can mark their success or lessen their defeat with a pat on someone’s back. Our hand on a shoulder can speak to someone that we are standing with them in whatever life is throwing at them. A squeeze of someone’s hand from ours can break the loneliness of their nursing home or hospital stay. Who can you reach out and touch today? 

 

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You that Jesus is our great high priest. Thank You that he can empathize with our weaknesses and that he did not sin. Bring me a touch from the Holy Spirit so that I can stand strong when I am tempted, and also so I can better empathize with others. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen

Today’s passage continues: “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” As Pastor Franklin encouraged, cry out to Jesus for the spiritual touch that you need – mercy, forgiveness, renewal, strength, power to live for Jesus, renewed love for others. Feeling shy? Get alone in a car, a closet, a field, but then, don’t let anything stop you from praying aloud, “Jesus, son of David, have mercy on me!”