Hey friends, welcome to the Graceology with Gwen Smith podcast.

I'm Gwen Smith and I'm really glad you're here.

Each week I host two different shows, one with incredible guests and meaningful conversations,

and one called A Moment of Grace, where

it's just me, talking to just you, in a reflective, devotional style to help connect those

busy, bruised, and broken places to the beautiful hope of Jesus. So now I invite you to sit

back and take a deep breath as I share with you a moment of grace.

When our kids were itty-bitty, my husband Brad and I used to hold little hands a lot.

Sometimes it was to protect them from danger, like if we were crossing a street.

Sometimes it was to calm fears, to help them feel secure.

Sometimes it was because we were on a mission to get through or to a place quickly.

And other times it was simply for the pleasure of strolling, skipping, and smiling together.

Now that they're older, my kids aren't so keen on holding

hands with mom and dad anymore. There's still the occasional watching a movie on the couch at home

handhold, but it's a rarity, and I miss it. I love locking fingers with my people. There's a beauty

and an intimacy to it, a tangible connection that binds our skin and

braids our souls. I love walking with them, hearing their hearts, talking through tight spots,

giving advice, learning, laughing, and enjoying their company. Similar to this, I believe our Heavenly

Father finds pleasure when you and I walk with

him, when we take his hand and share our time, trials, treasures, and thoughts. The prophet Micah

spoke to this in Micah 6.8 when he wrote, He has shown you, O mortal, what is good, and what does the

Lord require of you? To act justly,

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