Mom Heart Moments #102

“It is enough; now, O LORD, take my life, for I am not better than my fathers.” [Elijah] lay down and slept under a juniper tree; and behold, there was an angel touching him, and he said to him, “Arise, eat.”

ONE NIGHT MANY YEARS AGO, after we had been reading a book out loud, Joy said, “Mom, I have a surprise for you. Go take a hot bath and before you get into the tub, I want to put an avocado mask on you that I read about.” So I obeyed gladly, and she smoothed avocado all over my face (with extra for the wrinkles!).

After I got out of my bath, she made me close my eyes and led me by the hand into my bedroom. When I opened my eyes, I saw she had gathered candles and lit them all over my room, put on instrumental music, and laid out towels and a pillow for me to lie on. She then gave me a hand massage and filed my nails, gave me a wonderful foot massage with great-smelling lotion, and followed up with a back and shoulder massage. I cannot tell you how the stress went out of my body. I felt like I had been touched by an angel. I slept so soundly that night, and every time I awakened, a smile came to my face as I remembered the service of this precious thirteen-year-old and her last words before she left my room: “Mom, I love you so much, and I just wanted to show you my love.”

Sometimes when I am exhausted or drained, I really don’t need anyone to settle my problems or bring answers. I just need sleep or rest. There is a healing power to touch and affection, and Joy’s touch literally melted me that night and ushered me into rest.

Today, hug those you love, touch the disgruntled, kiss and scratch weary backs, and if you are weary, get rest and sleep.