Editor’s Note: Thunderhug Season

Editor’s Note: Thunderhug Season

I’m starting a new tradition with my grandchildren (number four is on the way) and it’s called thunderhugs! Here in the south when a thunderstorm decides to roll in the thunder can really boom!. I love it. But the grandchildren’s eyes grow big with fear when each blast sounds. So when when the sky roars and the children come running, I can smile with open arms and say, “It’s time for a “thunderhug!”

We all need them, don’t we? Especially when a storm is picking up and our security is shakey. I am deeply grateful for a Heavenly Father I can run to and say, “It’s time for a thunderhug.” Psalm 46:1-2 says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” and David said in 34:4, “I sought the Lord and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.”

The holidays’ can be a lonely time, a broken time, a hurting time for many people. In our busy world it’s getting harder and harder to find someone who will notice when you’re needing some tenderness and encouragement. And even harder to find someone willing to stop long enough to give the love and encouragement needed.

In Luke 10:33,34 Jesus said, “A Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was, and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put him on his own donkey, took him to an inn, and took care of him.” So, who is your neighbor? First and foremost it is the person in your path who needs someone to stop and offer love and assistants. A thunderhug in the storm.

Let’s open our eyes to the wounded, invisible, struggling people this Christmas season, and stop for them. I don’t want to be another religious person who passes by on the other side. Maybe someone needs a note, a call, or an email. Or, maybe it’s time for a thunderhug!

Juanita Edge, Communication Director