Saturday, January 13

Presence

Narrative Lectionary Daily Devotions written by Kace Leetch from Clergy Stuff.

In our day of technology, it's easier than ever to connect with people who live far away. Or close by, for that matter. At my age, I get excited to Facetime my family in California (I live in Minnesota). It's a special treat to see my distant family on holidays and special occasions. Kids today, however, Facetime in place of phone calls. They'll Facetime even when they just saw each other and they're going to see each other again in 1/2 hour. What a crazy awesome world we live in!

Still, there's something about Facetime that just doesn't quite fill the void of real presence. I have a theory that our bodies exude an energy (aura, perhaps?) that is palpable only when we're in close proximity. Facetime can't replicate a hug, a scent, or that energy that can only be felt when we're together. I don't know if I really have a word to describe it, but maybe it's... presence.

Today's psalm celebrates God's presence. It's God's listening ear. It's God's steadfast love. I imagine the psalmist celebrated God's energy, aura, scent, touch... presence. Today as you envision God's presence in your life, see if you can tap into God's energy, aura, scent, temperature, size, and weight. Imagine the palpable presence of God on your skin, in your nose, before your eyes, on your tongue, and in your ears. God is here. Truly, wonderfully, marvelously, physically here.

Narrative Lectionary Text: Psalm 66:20

Blessed be God,
   because he has not rejected my prayer
   or removed his steadfast love from me.