Being Present

‘There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:‘ Ecclesiastes 3:1

This past week I have experienced a number of emotions/experiences mentioned in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. It has been a rollercoaster week. From the excitement to hear that my new car was ready for pick up on Thursday, the elation of a great-great niece being born, to the devastating news that two brothers (aged 9 and 10) from the school I teach at had been tragically killed. Add this to other challenges and disappointments, it has been tough.

I’m so grateful for the comforting words of Jesus ‘I am with you always, to the very end of the age’, found in Matthew 28:20.

One significant moment was the offer of prayer from one of the older members of the church I attend. He didn’t just say, ‘I’ll pray for you’ (which is a gift in itself), but he offered to come to me, to pray with me. I personally find it hard to accept offers of help (and prayer), but this was a significant moment for me. To have someone be present, sit with me and pray. I know we were both blessed by that.

I understand that it’s not possible for many to go and be with a person, but may I encourage you to consider how you might be more deliberate in being ‘present’ to pray with and for someone. Be it physically or getting on the phone/screen and praying. I’m confident it will be a blessing to all ‘present’.