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 lots of little hands.

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

fears or 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 for the simple 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 watch a movie on the couch at home, handhold, but it is 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, laughing, and enjoying their company.

Similarly, 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 chapter 6, verse 8, he wrote,

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good, and what does the Lord require of you?

To act justly, and to love mercy mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

This is a simple yet profound summary of God's desire for us, a revealing of his longing for you and me to live in constant communion with him,

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