Have you ever considered the different kinds of arms that are out there on people sporting them? Descriptive words come to mind: strong, sinewy, firm, flexible or maybe chubby, flabby or stiff. Let’s be realistic, not all arms are created equal. Exercise and activity change arms. Age changes arms. However, arms that still move and have muscles, bones and tendons in tact can reach, hold, hug and embrace.
That is how I see God’s arms–ready to reach, hold, hug and embrace. God’s reach is vast and available and constant. God’s hold is strong to keep us from danger and to hold us closely when we feel fear. God’s hug is warm and welcoming and the embrace God offers is strong, safe and engaging and protective.
What about my arms? No, I do not think of size and shape and jiggle today, but rather I think of my reach. How wide will my arms go to comfort others, hold the weary and cover the frightened? What heavy lifting can I do in God’s name? How supportive will my arms be when I am called upon to use them? What does God require of my arms, no matter their size or shape?
I believe my reach will never be as wide as God’s reach, but I can try!
