Presence Again!

It seems I write a lot about "presence".  That is, being "in the moment," or simply "available," with someone.   This week while awaiting my wife's surgery I couldn't help but notice the large number of people who were waiting for their loved ones without a friend, pastor, small group leader, or someone from their church.  There were couples waiting together, mothers and daughters, adult children, and several men, like me, who were by themself.  During my two hours in a packed out surgery waiting I saw two pastor's (or church representatives) meet families and pray with them.  This was interesting to observe as one who is normally coming to the hospital to visit and pray with others.

My heart was heavy for all these people awaiting good/bad news about a loved one.  I am sure the majority did not have a church, or faith affiliation.  But what stood out was the number of people who sat alone while waiting the surgery outcome of their loved one.   This was a faith-based hospital that offered during my wife's "in-take" before surgery to have a chaplain/pastor available to pray with us the day of surgery!

If you are a Christ-follower, a member of a local church, a small group member, or leader of a ministry I cannot stress enough the importance of "presence"during these times.  Even the strongest families need someone to be there for them.  You don't even have to stay, but your presence will be a strong reminder that they are part of something bigger than themselves.  They will feel appreciated and loved. Our presence offers the assurance of faith in community.  They will remember too.  Nothing can take the place of presence, not cards, flowers, or emails.  Presence is one of the strongest examples of the communion of the saints.

One of the greatest prayer warriors we know (old family friend and a surrogate mother to both of us) called on the way to the hospital from Texas!  She was traveling for the Easter weekend, an hour behind and still managed to get up very early and call to pray with us.  She was present with us in the moment!  Her prayer meant more than she will ever know!  Actually I believe a person of her faith maturity does know, which is exactly why she did it!  Another woman from our small group recently had major surgery showed up after surgery to visit and pray with my bride!  Her sense of presence was incredible.  The next day as we left the hospital a friend with stage 4 brain cancer had left a precious voicemail saying he was thinking and praying for her.  Again, presence!

I believe God uses our presence to convey His presence!  We become vessels or instruments of His loving kindness and care every time we reach out to the hurting, wounded, suffering and sojourning.  Presence is something very special.  It is a gift from God.  So the next time you wonder if you should call and pray, or visit and pray with a friend, church member, someone in your small group, etc., don't hesitate and don't put it off.  Do it!