(Rom 16:16) Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you.
1Co 16:20) All the brethren greet you. Greet ye one another with an holy kiss.(2Co 13:12) Greet one another with an holy kiss.
(1Pe 5:14) Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen.
We have talked about having love for one another, and much has been fleshed out about the family of God. Well, we are family, even when we may not act like it. I don't know if you come from a physically affectionate family, or culturally if this type of affection is considered taboo. Either way, I don't really think we should just throw this one out as cultural, time sensitive, or the words of a man. Truly, these were Paul's writings, but inspired by God to show us how to live.
My home was not overtly affectionate physically growing up, and I don't often hug my dad or brothers. My mom is a hugger, and being a really big guy, it is fun to hug someone half your size. Mom enjoys a good hug from her "little boy", but not the kissing part. There are other families that are cheek kissers, mouth kissers, or that "air kiss" type. There are all flavors of folks in most churches, from what I have observed.
What is the root issue here? I believe (though I have been wrong before) that affection, be it physical, emotional, etc. is all based on love, caring, and desire to make those we love feel good. We want them to feel welcome in our homes. We wish to convey a feeling of gratitude for a gift, sorrow in times of parting, and many other emotions that just don't seem to fit so well with words as they do with a touch.
My kids tell me they love me. My wife says it, too. Still, a touch, sitting close to them and having physical contact seems much more intimate. Is this type of thing accepted practice in your home? What about in your church body? If not, have you considered why not? If so, is it always genuine, or has it become a tradition more than an true expression of love and fellowship?
I know some will feel that I have not gone into this deeply enough, others think it silly to even bring it up. These are just some thoughts to ponder. I really would love a female point of view, and may have Sara put something together if she gets a chance. If any of you ladies, or even the guys, have some thoughts, please share. I am rather affectionate, but often shy away as I have been told I am intimidating. So, if you are reading this and would like a hug, just reach out and hug me, I will hug back. If you are the kissy type, you may need to talk to my wife first. Cheek kisses are fine with us. I think Paul probably meant on the cheek anyway, but would admit to being wrong if someone could show me my fault.
Mark
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I did once get kissed by a man(on the cheek) This wonderfully affectionate brother is a great guy and not scared to show some brotherly love. When we were leaving the state, he ran out the door, grabbed me by the head and kissed my cheek. Quite forcefully! Really, I was not offended, but rather quite impressed at the genuine affection he showed me. In his culture, this is perfectly normal, and I think often Americans tend to be kind of uptight when it comes to affection, but I think we are on the lower end of the affection scale for the most part. Mexicans, Italians, French, and those few folks I know from Uganda are very huggy. Let's get on the ball, people. Paul said kiss 'em, now go kiss 'em(or not).
*NOT SO RELATED CONTENT AHEAD*
At 6'4" and 300#, I really do understand some folks being intimidated, but often feel that us big guys get the short end of the affection stick when it comes to babies. I love babies, playing with and holding babies, making faces for them, and just seeing God's wonderful creation at it's early stages. My wife would tell you that I like babies more than most women, and many mothers. Yet my size I think, may give some people pause in handing over their infants. Just a side note from the big guy.
