Have you been in a situation in
which you didn't know what to do or say, but had the gut feeling that you
needed to stay put? It's an uncomfortable experience. And yet, the fact that
you were present probably made a significant difference. More and more we are
discovering the importance of presence in relationships. Several years ago
people started talking about "quality time" as the key to getting
along with others. The reasoning went that it wasn't necessary to spend a lot
of time with people, but when you were with them, it was critical to give them
your undivided attention. Tragically, people started applying that
strategy with disastrous results to
their family relationships. Many individuals had to learn the hard
way that quality time usually doesn't happen unless we are in the presence of
that person for extended amounts of time. Important moments in relationships
can't be manipulated or programmed. They normally happen unexpectedly because
people have committed themselves and their time to each other.
If there is anywhere that the power
of presence is necessary, it is within the Church of Jesus Christ. It is so
easy to view the church as an institution to which we belong as participants.
And so we think that if we aren't present, it's no big deal. On various
occasions, however, Jesus called the Church his body, his bride and his family.
Imagine what would happen to a body if the kidney or the heart decided not to
do its job one day? What happens to a family if the husband or wife decides
he/she doesn't feel like participating anymore?
Jesus said, "By this all men
will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." The church
is meant to be a living relationship laboratory where we learn how to get
through life together in a distinctly Christian way. Our presence is necessary
for three reasons. First, we need to learn to deal with others as Christ
intends. Second, God uses us to work in the lives of other Christians so that
they can develop Christian relationship skills. Third, together we are meant to
be a witness to the world that Christ does make a difference in the way his
people get along with each--a difference so powerful that it creates in people
the desire to know more about him.
Exciting stuff, isn't it? But
remember, it all begins by being present. We invite you to be present with us
either Saturday at 6:00 pm or Sunday morning at 10:00 am.
