“The Lord went in front of them in a pillar of cloud by day, to lead them along the way, and in a pillar of fire by night, to give them light, so that they might travel by day and by night. Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people.”
Exodus 13:21-22 (NRSV)

Just knowing someone is looking out for you gives you a sense of confidence and assurance. Earlier this year as I accepted the privilege of being lay leader, I asked a few special AUMCers to be my mentors by providing me with “spiritual presence.” I know that their faith walk with Christ is first and foremost because of what He has done in their lives. I knew it would be a difficult year and that I would need the presence of special people to keep me grounded and focused. Remember the saying “WWJD” – What Would Jesus Do? Just four months into this new year we are already afflicted with uncertainty like we have never seen before. Many times I have asked myself, “What would my spiritual mentor do?”

Being alone and disconnected is a fear that many of us have. We want to have a sense of belonging. The Israelites in mass exodus wandered the desert looking for the promised land flowing with milk and honey. They had Moses imploring them, “Do not be afraid, stand firm and you will see.” They faced incredible odds but were assured protection and guidance by the angel of God. 

“For God alone my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall never be shaken.”
Psalm 62:1-2 (NRSV)

As a disciple of Christ, we are called to be a strong tower for others. At times we are called to be the “pillar of presence” to stand in the gap for someone. To be a presence in someone’s life is to invest yourself in them now. Accountability groups, sponsors, teachers, and mentors provide much needed support for those of us facing life challenges. Who has been that presence of grace for you?

“Presence” means to intentionally participate in any way you are able and it is not exclusive to being there in person. Through a kind word, prayer, email, text, conversation or old-fashioned handwritten letter or card you can share your presence with that person, regardless of the current conditions. Standing beside them can become that anchor of hope for someone needing to catch a glimpse of light shining their way. Are you that presence of grace for someone?

“Koinonia” or “caring grace-filled fellowship” is another way we share our presence. At AUMC we have one such ministry now going on 30 years appropriately called “Good Timers.” The only requirements for participation are to enjoy celebrating life in the company of others and to be at least 50 years young. While not exclusive to AUMC, members create atmosphere of extended family at monthly gatherings. They celebrate the joys of life through delicious luncheons, recognition of key milestones, inspirational devotionals, fun games and musical talent. Those folks who call this a second family cherish lifelong friendships. One AUMCer said, “The Good Timers gave me an opportunity to develop special friendships apart from Sunday morning worship.” Despite stay at home orders, they continue to live in Koinonia through emails and phone correspondence. 

“You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy; in your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”
Psalm 16:11 (NRSV)

Jesus gave us a simple command for being that guiding spirit for others and the gentle reminder that “no matter what” he would not leave us alone. As Jesus shared the bread and wine in the upper room, knowing he would be departing to the Father in heaven, He shared these words of assurance.

“A new command I give you; Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”
John 13:34 (NIV)

He then comforted the disciples by promising them that they would never be alone.

“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever – the Spirit of truth. ‘I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.’”
John 14:16 (NRSV)

Jesus shared that “Love of God” and “Love of Others” is vitally important in growing as a disciple. Connection with the Body of Christ through church activity, celebration of milestones, worship, small group, mission and ministry are just a few examples. Jesus embodied the importance of community by surrounding himself with his disciples and living in community with his fellow believers. We need to surround ourselves with the presence of those who want the best for us in this life as we practice for the eternal life to come.

A celebration always brings us a fullness of joy. What an endearing example of consanguinity shared this week at the “birthday celebration drive-by” for one of our church’s devoted matriarchs. A good time was had by carloads of AUMCers participating in the sharing of kinship spirit. The beaming smile on the birthday girl’s face was filled with joyful elation and love for her extended family.

While we anguish over not being able to meet as a church family, we have not once failed to be there for others. One AUMCer shared that “although we are apart, I feel more connected than ever with my church family.”

We have adapted and overcome the enemy of sickness who aims to take away the very omnipresence of fellowship with others that Jesus shared with his disciples. 

^“The hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each one to his home, and you will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone because the Father is with me. I have said this to you, so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world!”
John 16:32-33 (NRSV)

Hear the good news. We are not alone, and we will be together soon. Paul wrote the Romans describing his longing to be with the church in Rome. We draw our strength in numbers and will always long for connection (presence) with others and ultimately with Jesus himself. The church is strengthened and refined in times of trials because we greatly rejoice in the firm conviction of living hope through the risen Christ and the grateful acceptance of the inheritance reserved for each of us. We rejoice in the blessed reassurance promised in Romans 8:38-39.

^“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Presence in this life requires sacrifice of time and intentional participation. 

Are you longing for the clouds to lead you to a church family? Are you kindling the fire for someone that will bring them into the church family? 

Peace be with you,
Kenny Shortsleeve, Lay Leader