A Hug and a Hello
“Allen!” says Audrey as she enters the church. “I need a hug today!” And Allen, my adult son whose presence on the autism spectrum often sets him apart from others, happily obliges. Audrey is not alone in valuing the gift Allen gives; many in our church look forward to an all-embracing hug from Allen.
Not so long ago, the only people Allen hugged were me and his sister. Now, he willingly opens his arms and invites people in. It is Allen’s gift. He gives it willingly.
Called to Be the People of God
As Pat DeFeo reminded us on Sunday, each of us who attends Atonement Methodist Church is part of the laity. Taken from the Greek word laos, laity means we are “the people of God.” On Laity Sunday, we stretch ourselves just a bit out of our comfort zones, stepping into roles that reflect our spiritual gifts.
Matthew Henry’s commentary on I Peter 2:6 reminds us that we are built upon the living stone of Jesus.
Allen’s Quiet Offering
Communication is not Allen’s strong suit. He struggles with verbal speech and may ask for “time to get my words together.” He will probably never become a public speaker. But, man, can he hug.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many people avoid hugs and physical touch. Allen always asks with a polite, “May I hug you?” If the answer is “no,” he offers a high five or a fist-bump. He is never offended. But few people turn down a hug from Allen, this tall blue-eyed man with the same gentle nature as his late father.
The Science of a Holy Hug
Hillary Jacobs-Hendell, LCSW, suggests that a hug be “heart-beat to heart-beat.” Wiki-How adds that a hugger should create a “warm and welcome space.” I’m pretty sure Allen has read none of the research. But he demonstrates something the rest of us often fail to consider: he uses the gift God has given to him.
✨ Take-Away
God equips each of us with gifts that reflect His love—some visible, some quiet, some unexpected. Allen’s hugs remind us that healing doesn’t always come through words or sermons. Sometimes, it comes through presence, through touch, through the simple act of saying, “You matter.”
Let us not overlook the power of small offerings. They may be the very thing someone needs to feel seen, known, and loved.
🙏 Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You for the gentle ways You reveal Yourself through Your people. Thank You for Allen’s hugs, for the healing they bring, and for the reminder that every gift matters in Your Kingdom. Help us to recognize and use the gifts You’ve placed within us—not for recognition, but for restoration. May we be bold in love, generous in grace, and faithful in service. Teach us to embrace others with Your compassion, and to declare Your praises in all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
