A MOMENT IN TIME

In my job it is imperative to be present. A misstep here, a daydream there; just not paying attention could cause injury to myself, coworkers, or cost the company lost revenue in messing up my work. So being present is being safe.

Looking up the word present, it is such a versatile word. It can be a noun, a verb, or an adjective. In the Bible, I see the word used in the same ways. As in Genesis 32:13 (NLT) which states:
Jacob stayed where he was for the night. Then he selected these gifts from his possessions to present to his brother, Esau:… Sometimes it is an item or items while at other times it is yourself that is being presented. You get the idea; the combinations are many. I believe God needs us to be present so we can receive guidance and direction, and of course—gifts!

If we are present in the moment we may observe and notice what is happening around us. Maybe there is someone who is struggling emotionally or physically, which can then present us with an opportunity to be Jesus’ hands, feet, eyes, ears, or arms, and give them encouragement. Sometimes all a person may need is that we notice and acknowledge their presence with a nod or a smile. When we take time out of our own busy or painful day, the return on investment is two-fold. During the time you were present, those nagging issues were placed on the back burner, which now presented you with momentary relief. As an added bonus, after having helped someone else, you also receive the gift of feeling better about yourself. How is that for an amazing present? The person you helped feels better and you feel better having helped them.

Being present means, I notice my pet’s water dish needs cleaning and I do it. Yes, sometimes being present is mundane and nothing interesting seems to be going on so we would rather daydream. I get it. I do it, too. But I’m trying to teach this old dog a few new tricks, and I’m learning a lot about being present.

I believe that God gives presents in the present. Presents that help us get through a tough job, a rough day, or an uncomfortable situation. Have you noticed that when you take your focus off of those things or situations that want to bog you down, you may get to enjoy the beauty of the bright blue sky, the warmth of the sun, or smell an oncoming rainstorm. I believe these seemingly inconsequential gifts are to give us respite and possibly a renewed determination and strength to carry on. Present is a present, at least that is how I will look at it now.