We returned on Memorial Day, exhausted, from our California trip. We were so grateful to our friend Patty who flew in from Montana and helped us drive from Boise, Idaho, to Modesto, California. I kept thinking along the way that this may be our last time to drive this route. I think she agreed with me! It is not an easy drive and because of our ages and health issues, it has become more difficult over time.
I cannot say I will miss California. What I will miss are some of the events in the lives of my children and grandchildren. We were blessed before we left to see our youngest grandson via the internet at his sixth-grade awards ceremony. But as wonderful as it was to be present via technology, it could not compare with attending the high school graduation of his older brother in person.
We can talk via phone or one of the apps that allow us to see each other when we talk, but nothing can take the place of a physical touch. The greatest joy was putting my arms around my grandsons and his parents. (Yes, I still want to hug my children even at their ages!)
One of the most frustrating parts of the COVID-19 rules for me was the social distancing. I hated being “around” people and yet not being able to give them a hug, or a comforting or encouraging touch.
All the Gospel writers report that Jesus touched people, often to convey a healing. Two “touching” events reported in Matthew’s Gospel always leave me wondering. The first is Matthew 8:3 where Jesus touched a leper and told him, “I am willing, be made clean.” The second is in Matthew 9:19-21 when the woman with the issue of blood reached out to touch the hem of Jesus’ garment.
I always wonder what it felt like for the leper to receive the touch of the Savior as he was healed. As a leper and considered unclean, he would not have been touched very often. I always wonder about the courage of the woman (also considered unclean) to reach out and touch Jesus.
Jesus did not shrink from being touched or touching those the world considered unworthy. He still does not shrink from “touching” us to bring healing, encouragement, comfort, salvation into our lives. Bless His Holy Name!
