Hebrews 10:24-25
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another-- and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Have you ever considered just how powerful your presence is? It’s amazingly powerful!! Consider the impact on a child when their parent fails to show up to watch them perform in something like the school play or in the “championship” soccer game. Such an absence can leave a scar that will last a lifetime. Conversely, our presence can inspire them to new heights! Our presence is a very powerful thing, no matter who we are. It is a gift of our time… our life. In short, our presence is an expression of love.
The same holds true in church. While some in the church have roles demanding their “presence” each Sunday (…to teach the kids, or count the offering, etc) most enjoy the option of being present… or not. Choosing to be present speaks volumes. It says to all that faith is a priority to you. It also says that being present in the lives of those at church is important to you and that you care about them. It says, “I value being part of the community of faith, of growing in my own faith, and being a part of seeking and fulfilling God’s will through the church.” In essence, our presence says, “I love you” to everyone inside and outside of church who observes that you choose to be present.
Being present is also an act of leadership! It’s leading by example, leading others to follow your example in sharing their presence as well. Of course, choosing to be absent is an act of leadership as well; leading others see their presence as less important.
We’ve all been there. We’ve all thought, “I’m not going to church today. I don’t feel like it. I don’t need to. I’ve had a long week. It’s not like anyone will notice or care?” Yes, they will. They might not even know your name – but they know your face – and they realize it’s missing. Your presence is CRUCIAL!
I encourage you to give what may be the most valuable gift you may ever give – the gift of your presence – to your brothers and sisters in Christ. Your presence will serve as an “encouragement” to those around you and will “spur others to love and good deeds.” In turn, their presence will do the same for you!
The same holds true in church. While some in the church have roles demanding their “presence” each Sunday (…to teach the kids, or count the offering, etc) most enjoy the option of being present… or not. Choosing to be present speaks volumes. It says to all that faith is a priority to you. It also says that being present in the lives of those at church is important to you and that you care about them. It says, “I value being part of the community of faith, of growing in my own faith, and being a part of seeking and fulfilling God’s will through the church.” In essence, our presence says, “I love you” to everyone inside and outside of church who observes that you choose to be present.
Being present is also an act of leadership! It’s leading by example, leading others to follow your example in sharing their presence as well. Of course, choosing to be absent is an act of leadership as well; leading others see their presence as less important.
We’ve all been there. We’ve all thought, “I’m not going to church today. I don’t feel like it. I don’t need to. I’ve had a long week. It’s not like anyone will notice or care?” Yes, they will. They might not even know your name – but they know your face – and they realize it’s missing. Your presence is CRUCIAL!
I encourage you to give what may be the most valuable gift you may ever give – the gift of your presence – to your brothers and sisters in Christ. Your presence will serve as an “encouragement” to those around you and will “spur others to love and good deeds.” In turn, their presence will do the same for you!
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