THE MINISTRY OF PRESENCE
Carey Madding
Today's Scripture: “There were also many women there, looking on from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to him, among whom were Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Joseph and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.” Matthew 27:55-56, ESV
Theme: Faithful people reflect God’s loyalty as they remain with and minister to others.
“SOMEONE WITH SKIN ON”
There is a story of a little boy who was going to sleep for the night and was afraid of the dark. So, he crept his way into his father’s room and whispered, “Daddy, I’m afraid.” His dad said, “Don’t worry, son. Jesus is with you.” The little guy thought about it for a minute, and then said, “I know He is, Daddy, but I want someone with skin on.” We often say we are serving as “the hands and feet of Jesus” and that is appropriate. People do need to see and feel “Jesus with skin” in their lives. And we are the very ones, indwelt by His Spirit, to minister in that way.
NAMELESS WOMEN
There were many women who followed Jesus and served Him. A few of them are famous and we know their stories of deliverance (like Mary Magdalene) or their marital status (like Joanna the wife of Chuza) and others who provided material support (like Susanna). But there were “many women” and they stood faithful and present at the crucifixion. Yet just because they are not called out specifically does not make them any less important. In fact, throughout that society, women were behind-the-scenes helpers: in their homes, in the fields, at the marketplace.
JUST BE THERE
Visiting someone who is terminally ill, in prison, in rehab, or the family at the funeral home: these are hard things. You will not know what to say. You will feel incapable. Whether you are male or female, you can be one of the many who stand by, sharing the Presence of Jesus in a dark time. You may be a peacemaker, a comfort to a grieving spouse, or a nurturing friend, bringing God’s hope. You can bring the kingdom of God with you into that sad situation.
Make It Personal: People often are most worried about “what to say” in a difficult situation. Less is more! Be still. Be comforting. If God wants you to speak, He will tell you. He promises to provide the words in difficult situations: “for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour. For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you” (Matthew 10:19b-20, ESV). Be bold; show up; stand by; serve. In these ways, we are “Jesus with skin on” to the people who need His Presence.
Pray: Father God, You sent Your Son into this world and into my life. Help me reflect His glory, His peace, His comfort everywhere I go and to every person I meet. Help me to be there when You need me to be there. Give me Your words of comfort or love as You direct. Thank You for being here for me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Read: Mark 15:40-41, 43-46; 1 Peter 4:8-10
Weekly Memory Verse: “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” Ephesians 6:2-3, ESV