One of the most joyous occasions of my life was giving birth to my son almost 11 years ago. My first maternal instruction after emergency surgery was to immediately provide the most important life-giving quality for a newborn: skin-to-skin contact. His body, fragile from trauma, responded to the gentle touch from the one who bore him. From trauma to tranquility. 

When I think of the power of a loving, gentle touch, I am reminded of the life-giving qualities exuded by our Savior. In almost every encounter with Jesus that required touch in the Bible, there were often life-altering and lifesaving miracles performed. For the woman with the issue of blood, she knew the simplicity of her gentle action could yield healing and reprieve from her ailment, and she was right. An intentional yet gentle encounter would offer a new outlook on life. 

As we seek the face of Jesus in this season, know that a gentle touch or embrace with your spouse, child, family, or even close friend is warranted and, unbeknownst to you, is a matter of life and death. Twists and turns come often by surprise and the reality is many of us are dying slow emotional/spiritual deaths because we have not taken the time for meaningful connection. Make the choice today to extend a gentle embrace or kind word to help change the trajectory of the ones you care for most.