Meditation on Hands

So tonight all the staff girls got together and someone read this devotion. It was so powerful and I wanted to share it with you all. If possible have someone read it to you...if  not it is still powerful

Sit erect, feet flat on the floor, eyes closed, hands resting in your lap. Become aware of the air at your fingertips, between your fingers, on the palm of your hand. Experience the fullness, strength and maturity of your hand. Experience the fullness, strength and maturity of your hands. Think of your hands- think of the most unforgettable hands that have rested in your hands. THink of the hands of a new born child, of the incredible beauty, perfection, delicacy in the hands of a child. Once upon a time, your hands were the same size.

Think of all your hands have done since then. Almost all that you have learned has been through your hands. At one time the greatest accomplishment was tying your own shoes.

think of all the learning your hands have done and how many activities they have mastered. The things they have made, Remember the day you could write your name?

our hands are not just for ourselves but for others. how often they are given to help another. Remember the tears they have wiped away. How much hurt, anger and even violence they have expressed, and how much gentleness, tenderness and love they have given.

How often have they been folded in prayer; both a sign of their powerlessness and of their power

Now raise one hand slowly and gently place it over your heart. Press more firmly until your hand picks up the heart of your own heart, that most mysterious of all human sounds, one's own heartbeat, a rhythm learned in the womb from the heartbeat of one's mother. Press more firmly for a moment and then release your hand and hold it just a fraction from your clothing. Experience the warmth between your hand and your heart. Now lower your hand to your lap very carefully as if it were carrying your heart. For it does carry your heart.

Think of all the hands that have left an imprint on you. Fingerprints and handprints are heart points that can never be erased. The hand has its own memory. Think of all the places that carry your handprints and all the people who hear your heart print. They are incredible and will last forever.

Now without opening your eyes, extend your hands on either side and find another hand. Do not simply hold it, but try to convey a message- friendship, love, concern,. Let your hand speak to it and let it listen to the other. Try to express your gratitude for this hand lingering upon your hand. IT was His hand. Jesus has no other hands than ours.

Our hands continue His work here on earth as we reach out to those around us and as His love works in us and through us.