The Gift of Being Present
We live in a world that prizes productivity over presence. Our calendars are stuffed fuller than a Thanksgiving turkey, and our conversations often happen while glancing at a screen instead of into someone’s eyes. Yet, one of the greatest gifts we can offer this season isn’t wrapped in shiny paper. It’s wrapped in our devoted attention.
Being present in relationships isn’t just about showing up physically. It’s about tuning in emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. It’s about pausing long enough to notice, to listen, and to love. We need to truly focus on those around us and those who cross our paths daily.
A Moment That Changed Everything
I’ll never forget one Thanksgiving when my grandmother, well into her eighties, motioned for me to sit beside her. The house buzzed with laughter and conversation, but she spoke softly: “I don’t need help in the kitchen this year, sweetheart. I just need you to sit.”
That simple moment taught me something I hadn’t realized. I’d been so busy doing that I hadn’t been being. Far too often we occupy our days doing too much and using “busy” as an ongoing definition of our lives. We’re always on the go, striving for the perfect balance of everything life has to offer.
But my grandmother didn’t want perfection; she wanted presence. And that half hour on the couch, just holding her hand and listening to stories I’d already heard a dozen times, ended up being the memory I cherished most after she passed.
Why Presence Matters
Jesus Himself modeled the ministry of presence. When Mary sat at His feet, Martha grew frustrated that her sister wasn’t helping. But Jesus’ response was tender and corrective:
“Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” — Luke 10:41–42 (ESV)
Mary chose presence over performance. She recognized that being with Jesus was more important than doing for Him. And in that quiet moment, she received something Martha missed. Mary enjoyed the peace that comes from simply sitting in the presence of love.
This Thanksgiving, maybe that’s what we’re all really craving. Not the food or the festivities, but the feeling of being fully seen, heard, and known.
Putting It Into Practice
Giving attention to honor every relationship—GATHER—means intentionally slowing down. It might look like:
- Leaving your phone in another room during dinner.
- Asking someone a question and listening without planning your reply.
- Choosing to linger a few minutes longer after church just to connect.
When we give our time and attention, we mirror God’s heart. He is the ultimate example of presence. Emmanuel, God with us.
The Rooted Reflection
This season, don’t underestimate the quiet power of showing up wholeheartedly. Presence says, “You matter more than my to-do list or whatever is on my phone.” It’s how we give attention to honor every relationship, living out the heart of GATHER one conversation, one hug, and one prayer at a time.
