Baker: The true power in your hands

Helping hands. Often we use that term metaphorically, as a way to illustrate the love and encouragement that others offer us. Lately, though, I’ve been considering helping hands more literally. I’ve been noticing the mystical language of hands — the hope, comfort and support they offer those in need.

For example, I remember a story, years ago, about a baby girl who had been kidnapped from her mother’s van. As I looked at the photograph accompanying the newspaper story, as I watched a live broadcast of the family reunion on television, I couldn’t stop noticing the hands. First, I noticed the young mother’s hands, heavily bandaged—evidence of the valiant struggle she had endured to protect her child. Her husband stood next to her, cupping her elbow protectively, guiding her steps towards their child.