asbc seek devotionals 2025 2 - Flipbook - Page 40
DEVOTIONAL JOURNAL | ALFRED STREET BAPTIST CHURCH
Day 18: From
Trauma to Tranquility
REV. SHAVON ARLINE-BRADLEY
“And Jesus said, “Who was it that touched me?”
– Luke 8:45 RSV
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.
JOURNAL
REFLECTIONS
When was the last time we extended
ourselves to someone?
What gentle gesture can you offer today that
could support the emotional needs of those we
are responsible for or come in contact with?
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PRAYER
Father, guide me as I extend my hand to those in need.
Let us discern when and how, we interceded and do what
you do best and that is answer when we call. In Jesus
Name, Amen.
