All Jesus’ qualities—spiritual characteristics are important
but above all love. But now faith, hope,
love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love…1 Corinthians
13:13. I came from a mixed family. My Mom’s family hugged, but since they lived
300 miles away we only saw them a couple of times a year. My Dad’s family was
of German heritage and although we lived close by they rarely showed any
physical love, like hugs, to us kids. There was some tickling—but I don’t really
consider that “loving.” So hugging hasn’t come naturally to me and I’m guarded
with my hugs. Of course it is easy to give the grandkids plenty of hugs—and my
kids mostly as they come and go from our home—but not consistently, I will
admit. How about you? Are you a hugger?
Recent reports on studies have shown that everyone
needs at least 10 hugs a day to thrive. Virginia Satir, a respected
family therapist, said “We need four
hugs a day for survival. We need eight hugs a day for maintenance. We need
twelve hugs a day for growth.” Twelve—that’s a lot of hugs. Physical touch is
important. Hugging strengthens the immune system, builds self-esteem, and creates
trust in a relationship. Jesus said, let the little ones come unto me” and I
image that He hugged them and their parents, too. We need to do likewise. So
open your arms and your heart—give a hug. Share the love of Jesus with family and
friends today. Keep everyone healthy. January 21 is National Hugging Day—a world-wide
event. Put it on your calendar…but don’t save all your hugs until then.
Training
Tip – Just Hug
Lord—You are Love. Help us to show your love—and hug those around us today.
Lord—You are Love. Help us to show your love—and hug those around us today.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB)
unless otherwise noted.
© 2013
by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
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