Presence

 

Last Sunday (6-27-21), I urged the congregation to see that our greatest joy is found in God’s presence.  Being with God is better than getting what (we think) we desire.  You can watch that sermon here – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnytxbCHJMw (begin at 19:20 mark).  Be with God.

            Here I follow up that message with an encouragement for you.  This summer, 2021, discover what being is God’s presence is like for you. Prayer walking.  Periods of silent meditation.  Worship singing.  Journaling.  Find the mode and context in which you are able to tune out distractions and focus on hearing from God.  Feel God speak to your spirit. 

            Jesus promised “I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20b).  Paul promises nothing in creation can “separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:39).   Why is it good news when we say “God is with us?”  I bet you can answer that question intellectually or rationally.  Or, if you don’t know the answer, you can research it and discover a cogent response. 

            Why is it good for us experientially?  I suspect this one is harder to articulate.  And this is not something you’ll learn by a google search our hours spent reading thick theology or spirituality books.  To experience God, you have to invest significant time and focused attention walking with God, sitting with God, and listening to God.  Do exactly that this summer.  Dedicate this summer to knowing God in your spirit.

            There will be trial and error, and frustrating periods of silence.  It’s worth the agony.  Transformation comes in the journey.  And, you’ll see the world around you differently, and you’ll become a new creation.  Practice the presence of God.  Discover who you are in light of your relationship with God in Christ.