The Art of Being Present - March 9

Today’s Readings - Psalm 80; Gen. 44:18-34; 1 Cor. 7:25-31; Mark 5:21-43

When my children were small it seemed that they were always trying to get my attention, to tell me something. Still to this day, when all four of them are together it feels as though they all talk at the same time. There were many things I wish I had been better at when they were growing up but being present, really being able to listen and see them in the moment was something I did not do well. It wasn’t as though I didn’t care what they were saying or didn’t want to be responsive to their needs, it was just so much and so constant. Our oldest daughter has three young boys close in age and when I’m with them I’m reminded of just how hard that is, to give each one the attention they need and deserve. 

 From time to time I’ve been called out by one or all of them for not listening which is not my intent at all. If I could learn how to be wholly present now, today, in all the different areas of my life I would feel as though I had accomplished something.

 We all know someone who seems to be able to look us in the eyes while we’re talking, never glancing away, never missing any of the intricacies of our story. Time spent with someone who has that gift leaves me feeling as though I have been truly blessed by their presence. At the heart of good human relationships is an ability to communicate in ways that convey true caring and empathy. To be in a place where we are in pain, depressed, or even incredibly happy and heard as well as seen is a precious gift.

 As Jesus passes through the crowds, with people pressing in from all sides, he notices that someone has touched the hem of his garment. As he feels power go out, he looks around asking who has touched him. In the midst of that crowd Jesus takes time to be present to a woman who with nothing but faith in a man she has never met, who she heard was a man of God, reaches out desperate for help. Jesus takes the time to look into her eyes and having pity on her and seeing her faith he heals her. He then continues to the home of the leader whose daughter was dying and heals her as well. 

 Jesus never stops to ask why he should heal someone or if they deserve it. He never passes someone by because he’s in a hurry and can’t be bothered. Instead, he always takes the time to be present. His example is one we can never completely replicate, but wouldn’t it be a wonderful world if we just tried, if we managed to achieve even a semblance of his thoughtful caring attitude for others? 

 Faithfully,

Sally+

 Questions for Reflection and Challenge - What would it be like if we could master this trait? If we could find the time, the patience, the presence of mind to be still and share with others the knowledge that God is present.