One day, while on a journey through the land of cancer treatments, I was to have a PET scan. This was an expensive test, and any movement on my part would make it potentially unreadable. My arms were positioned above my head and I was to lie as still as possible for 20 minutes. It didn’t take long to realize my arms were not going to cooperate. Within minutes, they were ‘falling asleep’. Usually, when this happens, you reposition, blood-flow re-vitalizes the affected part and voila—no pain. In this instance though, I was not supposed to move. As the test progressed, I prayed: “Jesus, with your help we can do this.” As the test was nearing the end, in tears I prayed “Jesus I need a hug today.” The tech helped me move my arms back down to my side. The test was over. I drove home, not thinking any more about my prayer.

The mail had already come that day and with it, a package for me. I was surprised to find a prayer shawl. Women at a local church crochet them, praying for the recipient while creating these gifts of love. It was a wonderful reminder that I was not alone in this difficult time. What was more astonishing was the note my friend put in the package when she sent it to me.

“When you wrap this around you—may you feel the arms of Jesus holding you.” I still get tears in my eyes knowing that Jesus knew where I lived and sent my hug straight to my house!

Psalm 68:

19Praise the Lord; praise God our savior! For each day he carries us in his arms.

Psalm 44:

3They did not conquer the land with their swords; it was not their own strong arm that gave them victory. It was your right hand and strong arm and the blinding light from your face that helped them, for you loved them. 4You are my King and my God. You command victories for Israel. 5Only by your power can we push back our enemies; only in your name can we trample our foes. 6I do not trust in my bow; I do not count on my sword to save me.

Isaiah 40: 11He will feed his flock like a shepherd. He will carry the lambs in his arms, holding them close to his heart. He will gently lead the mother sheep with their young

.… 27O Jacob, how can you say the Lord does not see your troubles? O Israel, how can you say God ignores your rights? 28Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. 29He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. 30Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. 31But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.

Jesus, only your hugs can refresh us. Thank you for seeing our needs way ahead of time and preparing for them! Bless your Name!

You are our tender Shepherd, who carries us in your arms. Can we ever thank you enough! Our hearts are full of gratitude.