Give the Gift of Presence

During the Christmas holidays, we will use many words that start with the letter “P” as we decorate trees, wrap presents, plan our parties, pack items for shipping, ask the kids for a little peace and quiet, count the people on our guest lists, and set the table with placemats, poinsettias, and pine combs. As we prepare to eat, we will pray in public and in private covering all who are present at our place as well as those afar. We will thank God for His promise to keep us and bless us as we prepare for another year while secretly having one eye on Mom’s pumpkin pie. Oh yes, the moment the last guest is gone and the wrapping paper is thrown away, we think back on the day with pleasant memories and dream of a pillow on which to lay ourselves down to sleep. The perfect way to end a perfect day.

Saints let us remember that there are many other “P” words that come up on Christmas day for those that are less fortunate. There are many in pain from the loss of loved ones at this time of year. There are others living in poverty and the streets are their place called home. Yet still others, children I say, with parents in prison and no one to protect them from the pushers, pimps, and pros determined to cheat them of their potential. Let us rise and intentionally plan to be present in the lives of those around us. In all of your giving this season, give the gift of presence. Be prominent in the life of someone suffering in plain view.

Touch the people around you. Be the presence of Christ, praying for those you pass by, those you see in the store, people at the gas pump but most especially for those you see sleeping in doorways, bus stops, and the back of buildings. Be a representative of the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). Pray without ceasing and help manifest the possible. If I be lifted up, I will draw all men unto me (John 12:32). As Pastor Derry says, “Don’t neglect what is in your hands.”

You are blessed to be a blessing and in this holiday season the biggest and the best “P” is giving is the gift of presence. Be present in every moment having eyes to see, ears to hear, and a heart to understand (Matthew 13:15-17). Merry Christmas!
 
Contributor: Tara Lynn Gray

^