I have no hands but yours

There are many versions of a story of a statute of Jesus Christ that was damaged by bombing during World War II from France to Germany. Regardless of its origin and despite the evidence or lack of - the story and its message has lasted generations. The story tells us that the hands of the statute were so damaged that they could not be reattached. The local townspeople discussed whether a sculptor should be called in to fashion some new hands but decided instead to leave it as it was. At the base of the statue of Jesus Christ, a sign was erected with these words: "I have no hands but yours"


So I have been thinking about this story and what that means to me....

I can have hands that serve others
I recently found my mother's journal and she wrote about one of her friends who were those pair of hands - hands of service. "Thursday 25 January 2007. My lovely frend, Dolly Keung, made me a lovely, lovely humungous special meal - pork bones, watercress, kamokamo, maori potatoes, dough boys. So delicious. Lloyd dropped the bowl of goodies. About an hour later I got up to see what there was and strated crying. How someone so kind can do such lovely things she does for others. One person I can honestly say that I love very much. Heavenly Father sure made her out of his heart - love you Aunty Dolly for who you are and for the sweet memories we can and do share with each other"

I can have hands that comfort
When my mother passed away - it hit me very hard. She was my best friend, confidante, and mother. The hands of comfort that came to me over the first few days and weeks could be numbered on one hand. I believe it is because people just don't know what to do or say.......yet thankfully, one family tried harder. They are not our blood relatives, but they have wrapped their love around me, my sister, brother and our families. They invite us for dinner, drop baking off, write cards and make phone calls and the best bit - they listen and really genuiunely care. What a comfort they have been to me and mine. I too can do this for others.

I can join hands with those I love
I remember the first time that my husband went to hold my hand - he actually asked me first ;-) He didn't take it for granted - but he asked. It is a simple gesture, but one that cements us as a unit, and a team. Whenever I get the chance I hold my sons hands too as if I am willing the love from me to pass through my fingers to them - of course they aren't so receptive these days now that they are all grown up... but regardless of their age - there is nothing that feels that same as having a child's hand in yours. I have a magnet that says that "A mother holds her child's hand for now and their hearts forever". To that I say AMEN ;-)

I can extend the hand of friendship
There are a couple of ladies that live nearby that I am going to visit this week. I know that both of them could do with some friends, and I am committed to doing this. I know that the hand of friendship extended to me has come at times that I needed it most. Now it my turn to reciprocate some of that to others.... It may be something you can try as well.

Have a great week friends... thank you for offering your hands of support to me this year and every week we meet here - same time same blogspot ;-)

Until the next time,

Mxox