Just be Held
Today I was listening to the radio in my car as I was running an errand for a friend. The song “Just Be Held” by Casting Crowns was playing. As I listened, I reflected on its meaning. When I reached my destination, I spent some time reflecting on being held.
As I mused on this stirring, a series of questions drifted through my mind.
- What is it like for me to be held?
- In what ways am I held?
- Why do I desire to be held?
As I thought about these questions stirring within me, I was drawn to pursue some answers.
- I like to hold hands with my fiancé and to receive hugs when I return from an
outing.
- I like the hugs and kisses that I receive from my children and grandchildren.
- I like hugs that I receive from my brothers and sisters.
- I like hugs from friends when we meet on various occasions.
The list goes on and on.
I am in my 80’s, so I have a wide circle of available moments to be held. The ones that foster reconciliation are very special to me.
As I continued to reflect, I became aware that I look to others for my moments of being held. They are all human beings with human wounds and flaws. Yet they provide comfort and a sense of belonging to me. Most of the time I can overlook their flaws and appreciate the sense of belonging they offer me.
One of the gifts that God has planted in me is that of being a wounded healer. I have many scars and can relate to people who are hurting. Yet God, in Christ, is the ultimate Wounded Healer. Why do I find it difficult at times to turn to God when I need to be held?
As I continued to reflect on these insights, my thoughts journeyed toward looking at ways that I am focused on the Divine presence.
I asked myself - What are those moments like when I am held by the Divine?
- Through the unity found in Eucharist,
- When I am seen by others as a God-fearing man,
- In the gentle nudge when I have temptations,
- Throughout anxious moments in my life,
- When I experience the misunderstanding of others,
- As I navigate the storms of life.
These are just a few.
Reflection question: What are some moments in your life when you called on God to be held in His embrace?