By LeAnn Hampton
Today in worship we are reminded of the new beginnings all around us. Students with backpacks signal the start of the school year and a change from the summer routine. Participating in the family dedication for R.J. Murphy gives us the opportunity to celebrate the gift of new life in our church family. For some of us, it may have been many years since we welcomed someone new in our families or enjoyed the excitement of new beginnings.
You may be one who eagerly welcomes changes and the start of something new, and the person next to you may be facing the prospect of change with feelings of dread, uncertainty, anxiety or fear.
One of our hymns today, Precious Lord, Take My Hand, reminds us about our Lord’s abiding presence when we are facing new challenges and unusual situations. Thomas A. Dorsey, the composer of more than 1,000 musical works, wrote this gospel song in 1932 in response to the tragedy of losing his wife and infant son during childbirth. After their deaths, he described being lost in grief and unable to find his way. A dear friend, Professor Frye, was sensitive to Dorsey’s needs and took him to a neighborhood music school on a Saturday evening when no one else was present. Seated at a piano, Dorsey consoled himself by playing a familiar tune and composing today’s hymn text. A phrase repeated throughout the hymn is a plea for the Lord to take or hold our hands to give us assurance of God’s presence with us.
Who knew that recent medical research has confirmed the important benefits of holding hands? The findings were that holding someone’s hand gives a sense of security, provides stress relief and even can improve heart health. As we worship together, let’s think about ways we can literally or figuratively hold the hand of another and be the presence of Jesus. Your actions may encourage and add to the excitement of those who are enjoying the new beginnings this time of year brings. Like Dorsey’s friend, Professor Frye, you may be the hands of Jesus to those who feel tired, weak, worn, overwhelmed, confused and sad. Whose hand can you hold this week?