Blessing
by Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok
from Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time
Reprinted by permission

(As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from a book of daily devotions, written by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok, called Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time.)

"Then [Jesus] led them out as far as Bethany, and, lifting up his hands, he blessed them." (Lk 24:50)

Blessing is a widespread Biblical practice not limited to the Old Testament. Jesus fully understood the power of blessing and in this passage blesses his people as he leaves them. He equips them with divine power and confidence for a great life work through his blessing.

The simplest formula for performing a blessing is "blessed are you!" It often comes with simple actions with symbolic significance. The one blessing raises the right hand (Genesis 48:13ff), or raises both arms and hands (Ex 17:11). People kiss or embrace as a blessing without embarrassment (Gn 48:10) or sexual intent or seduction. Often the one who is to give the blessing eats a special meal before bestowing it (Gn 27:4). The patriarchs in Genesis chapters 12 through 36 demonstrate performing blessings in a variety of ways.

For Christians, often blessing is spoken with the right hand raised, making the sign of the cross. It is the pronouncement of God's gracious favor and given on the authority of scripture to faithful believers. Christians are assured of God's grace, love, and spirit in us. We do not have to be Jesus to bless people we love.

We can bless with simple, symbolic body movements such as raising our arms and careful touch.  Meaningful touch can be healing when done well.  Be careful with this however!  In today's world, many have been assaulted or sexually molested.  While touch was essential in Old Testament blessing, use caution and discretion in our twenty-first
century world.  When touch is acceptable and appropriate, it can convey warmth, personal acceptance, and even physical health.  In the Bible, people kissed and hugged gently, and lovingly laid on hands while performing a blessing.
God, give me a blessing today and help me pass the blessing on to others. Amen.

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