Who touched me?

Jesus asked, “Who touched me?” Everyone denied it, and Peter said,”Master, the people are all round you and crowding in on you.” But Jesus said, “Someone touched me, for I knew it when power went out of me.” The woman saw that she had been found out, so she came trembling and threw herself at Jesus’ feet. There in front of everybody, she told him why she had touched him and how she had been healed at once. Jesus said to her, “My daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace.”
(verses 45-48)

Read Luke 8: 40-56

The abuse of children – and adults – is a dreadful crime, and it leaves a poisonous legacy. In every form it degrades all involved, including innocent members of the same family, institution, or church. However uncomfortable it may be, the action being taken to root out this evil and prevent its occurrence needs our total support. Our homes, our schools, our churches, need to be truly ‘Safe Places’.

What we lose along the way is also very sad. Pastors, teachers, church workers and volunteers, have become aware of their actions, and how they need to be appropriate, and ‘safe’. We also know that touch is a basic human need, a vital part of our God­ given capacity for giving love and care in many different ways. Jesus touched, and was touched, and God’s healing overflowed through him into a needy world. It goes to the very heart of the gospel, to be able to reach out and share that love.

Pray that we find the right balance very soon, between safety and care.

Lord God, ‘my body and soul, my mind and senses’ are good gifts to be used to your glory and for the good of others. Help us to share your gifts wisely, and with love. Amen.

by Roger Whittall, in ‘Time Out a word from God’ (LCA, Openbook, 2008)

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