See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands.                                                         Isaiah 49:16 NIV

Hands are beautiful.  They share the story of a person’s life.  Some are strong and still grasp a firm handshake.  Others dance across the keys of a piano with grace and rhythm. With age, some become crippled with arthritis and pain.

Once these hands were cool hands on a fevered forehead.  They were also comforting hands when we were sad or disappointed about something. They were steady hands, writing notes and sipping tea. They were soothing hands when we grieved the loss of a loved one.

Then there’s the warmth of watching a courting couple or a seasoned married couple, hand-in-hand on a walk or just sitting on the couch together.  As we age and lose our spouse, we miss the warmth of their touch. Hugs and hand-holding disappear and become a distant memory for many.  

Providing a manicure with a warm, soapy water soak and a gentle warm lotion massage will do wonders for those hands that now seem so lonely, lifeless and frail.

To take the hand of a loved one in yours can revive their spirit once again.  Holding one’s hand can bring comfort and connection in an otherwise lonely season. The tender gesture is one of caring and compassion without saying a word.

Thank You, Lord, for the comfort and beauty of our loved ones’ hands and thank You for engraving me in the palm of Your hands, being ever mindful of me.

  • Christine Brisco

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