“Nevertheless, I am continually with you; You have taken hold of my right hand.”  Psalm 73:23

Think of times over the years when you held someone’s hand. What comes to mind?

Is it the hand of a parent so you wouldn’t wander too far? Is it the hand of a sibling while you crossed the street? Is it the hand of a friend playing a game? (Red Rover, Red Rover …) Is it hand holding in the dark of a movie theater? Or is it holding someone’s hand during a difficult time?

I have many memories like these too. Think of a recent or special time you held someone’s hand and why.

For me two things come to mind. I held the hand of my fragile mother when she couldn’t find words to say and I didn’t know what to say. Also, I held my husband’s hand just because. Yes, after over 30 years of marriage we hold hands and sit on the same side of the table at restaurants. After all this time, we like to be close and hold hands, just because.

Now, imagine holding the hand of Jesus. Upon your profession of faith as a Christian that is exactly what you have done. You have taken hold of His right hand.

Can you think of a time when it was clear that Jesus held your hand?

I can remember several times. The time He held my hand and pulled me close so I would not run off in the wrong direction, saving me from making a poor life choice. The times He held my hand to form a stronghold when someone or something was coming right at me – just like that game of Red Rover I held tightly to Him to stand strong. He also held my hand while I silently grieved and I have felt His touch in the quiet of the morning, just because. 

He is continually with me and with you. He is always near to hold our hand even when no one else physically can or will. 

As a new Christian starting to walk with Jesus, the feeling is so tangible, His presence so evident. The excitement of entering this new life is vibrant. We take His right hand and walk so closely, like little children crossing the street, good friends, and young couples.

As the years pass, do you stay close to Him – just because?

Do you feel that celestial squeeze of your hand during tough times? Maybe through the words of a friend, the lyrics in a song, or a verse of scripture?

Do you feel the energy and gain resolve to do the hard things because you feel His grip on you?

Do you sit silently because you can’t find the words and just feel His presence?

That’s what holding hands with Jesus feels like. 

30 years, 40 years, 50 years and beyond – He is continually with you, sitting right beside you – just because. Take His hand and never walk alone.

Dear Lord, 

I pray that I never let go of your right hand or stray so far that I feel I can’t reach you. What a blessing, a comfort, and a joy to have You continually with me. 

Amen.