Let me see if I can explain.

The first thing that kicks in is the orbicularis oculi supported, of course, by the interaction of the pectoralis major, the serrantis anterior, both flexor carpi radialis and the entire integumentary system.

In common parlance, it is called a hug. I suppose it loses something in the scientific explanation.

This is precisely the problem with much of Christianity.

In my office are hundreds of books dealing with a myriad of doctrinal issues. There are tomes on the resurrection, the incarnation, the ascension, the trinity, the Eucharist and the Holy Ghost. I have volumes that try and explain the reasoning behind pre-millenialism and post-millenialism, transubstantiation and consubstantiation, universal salvation and the perpetual virginity of Mary. My library does a pretty good job of explaining it all and yet, sometimes, I am not so sure it has much to really say about Christianity.

"Words, words, words," Hamlet sighed and it is my lament as well. A curious dilemma for a preacher to be sure, one whose very livelihood depends on the ability to use this often over-used resource. I do grow tired of the need to keep talking about Christianity. We have enough talkers. In fact, talking about Christianity is the easiest thing about Christianity and that is why we have so many experts who are talking.

There are times when I bemoan the existence of the Bible. As wondrous and glorious as this holy book is, I can’t help, at times, to wish it never was. If only the truth of God’s love could be told without those sixty-six books, I sometimes think we would be better off. I know it sounds absurd but imagine how interesting it would be to proclaim the gospel truth without resorting to doctrinal formulations or systematic theologies and instead be forced to utilize only the example of our lives.