He Took Her by the Hand, a prayer

Julia Larsen, pexels

As you settle yourself into the quiet and stillness of God's presence, breath deeply the healing power of God. As you sit in stillness ask God to share with you a way you can serve others. Let a neighbor come to mind is there one who is elderly and could use a ride or some errands taken care of. Ask God if there is a person in your church or life who could use your help. Let that person's image come into your mind. Then ask God to help you be of service by guiding your hands and feet to help.

…

Jesus,

you took her by the hand and lifted her up.
in bed, too sick to move.
she was trapped inside
lost in a haze
feverish dreams

then you took her by the hand

your touch changed her
the touch of a stranger
pulled her up out of the dreams
the fever broke

the touch of a hand
changed a life
the touch of a hand
lifted from the bed
lifted from the sickness
lifted into hope

the touch of a hand
can change you
you become one who touches others
the touch of a hand
when you lifted her

she started to serve
she began to touch others

she shared a kind word
she brought a covered dish
she held the hand of the ill
she brought food to the hungry
she gave clothes to the naked

she sat with them as the tears flowed
she touched so many

because You touched her first

Amen.