Scripture: “With tender humility and quiet patience, always demonstrate gentleness and generous love toward one another, especially toward those who may try your patience” (Ephesians 4:2 TPT).

This past Sunday, my pastor interrupted his conversation to reach out and tap me on the shoulder as I walked by. I smiled in return, for I knew his wordless greeting meant, “Hi! How are ya? Glad you’re here!” The simple gesture reminded me of an almost-forgotten moment when another pastor’s touch reached a small child’s heart.

A number of years ago, my husband and I fostered four little boys, ages six to thirteen. I’ve told the story of those tumultuous but deeply rewarding years in my book, “A Perfect Marriage” (e-book, available on Amazon).

September 1985, Texas City, Texas: The boys were lined up beside me in the pew, doodling on their Sunday school papers and quietly squirming. I had promised them ice cream on the way home if they behaved, but the church hour grew long and they ached to run and play.

The littlest fellow, Del, struggled even more than the others to be still. His hyperactive spirit rebelled against so much inactivity. A behavior problem at home and at school, he tried the patience of us all.

Finally, the sermon came to an end, followed by an altar call. During the final hymn, the pastor walked down the aisle to stand at the door and shake hands with people as they left. As he passed us, he unconsciously patted Del’s arm.

The little boy froze. His eyes widened, and he reached for his shoulder. All the way home, he could speak of nothing else. “The preacher touched me,” he kept repeating. “He touched me right here.”

Science tells us that loving touches are necessary for emotional health. To a child who had been emotionally damaged, this simple gesture of acceptance by a man he respected fed his starving soul.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, make me aware of others’ need for a loving touch. Show me ways I can touch someone else with Your love today. In Your name I pray, amen.