Physical Touch
Physical touch is life-giving. Studies show that babies who are held, hugged, and kissed develop a healthier emotional life than those who are left for long periods of time without physical contact. What begins with us all as babies continues as one way to express love in life.
UNDERSTANDING PHYSICAL TOUCH AS A LOVE LANGUAGE
Basically, if your Love Language is Physical Touch, then that means you prefer physical expressions of love over all other expressions (like verbal compliments or gifts). We call people who have this Love Language “huggers”, for example.
Interestingly, Physical Touch releases oxytocin, a feel-good hormone that actually boosts your immune system.
During COVID, this Love Language has been restricted. As physical contact was avoided during COVID, several people told me the circumstances helped them realize this was their Love Language.
JESUS AND PHYSICAL TOUCH
Throughout Jesus’ ministry, He used touch to show love:
The touch of healing – Peter’s mother-in-law gets a fever. Jesus touches her. A 12-year-old girl is deathly ill. Jesus touches her. There is a blind man in Bethsaida. Jesus touches him. Over and over again, Jesus chose to heal with a touch.
The touch of reassurance – The disciples heard a voice from heaven that caused them great fear. “But Jesus came and touched them. ‘Get up,’ He said. ‘Don’t be afraid.’” Matthew 17:7 (NIV) Jesus touches them. A touch can say: I’m here for you. It’s okay.
The touch of blessing – People brought little children to Jesus to have Him touch and bless them. The New Testament world was not at all sentimental, as we tend to be about children. They were considered the lowest rung on the ladder. The disciples think Jesus has more important things to do than bless children, but actually Jesus doesn’t. Jesus blesses with a touch.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
1 Thessalonians 3:12 commands us to grow in love. One tool, one expression of love is Physical Touch.
Physical Touch is important to all children and all people. Do not underestimate the power and importance of physical touch as we ask God to help us grow in love.