Our family has begun a practice that is creating the same type of fun in our home. Every now and then someone will say, "Family hug time!" and we all fight for the position in the middle of the circle. We usually end up kissing each other randomly with our eyes closed-of course, so we won't be distracted by runny noses and dirty faces. If we go a few weeks without this delightful moment together, I can count on a few complaints from the children.

Christ taught each of us the importance of touch. In His day, it was common for people to bring their children to religious leaders for a blessing. Luke 18:15-16 tells how Jesus took a moment from a business discussion to pick up a few children, give them a hug and bless them on their way. Can you imagine the joy His touch brought to the parents of those children? Jesus was a proponent of the family hug. He wanted people to understand the importance of touch and He was willing to make a few disciples mad to get His point across.

Hugging as a family is a very appropriate way to communicate love. It also teaches your children what appropriate touch is. Being this type of good role model with your kids will prepare them to pass on that same type of appropriate hugs to their children in the future.

Let this be a reminder to some of us to put the phone down or close the lap-top and yell, "FAMILY HUG TIME!" Go ahead. Try it! You'll like it and your children will thrive in the warmth and security of your love.

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