Presence Day 2: The Kingdom of God is Among You by Buzzy Mize

Once Jesus was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God
was coming, and he answered, “The kingdom of God is not coming
with things that can be observed.” – Luke 17:20

This scripture underscores the importance of our vow to support the Church with our presence. In Methodist tradition we have a rhythm of an inward and an outward presence.

In Worship we are enriched by the word and celebrate the Sacraments. With these gifts, we go out into the world to promote justice, peace, and love.
We often think of this "presence" as corporate but Jesus's words and the Church's teachings makes this commitment of presence personal.

In celebrating the Eucharist, we seek a presence and connection with Christ individually. That presence feeds our soul and prepares us to be a presence of Christ for others.

At the Baptisms of my Grandsons, the Church promised to always be present in their lives. I know from experience it will.

We are called to be present in the lives of those around us, to celebrate their joys and to help bear their burdens. Sometimes our presence is all we have to give. As a boy my parents took me to be at the side of a friend whose mother died. My father told me to let my presence be my words. Our presence is required to "Bare one another's burdens".

Jesus says the "Kingdom of God is among us". That is truly Great News and a precious gift we should share. 

CS Lewis reminded us that we should enjoy this gift of having the Kingdom of God in our midst. He wrote, "Next to the Blessed Sacrament itself, your neighbor is the holiest object presented to your senses."


​PRAYER: Give us grateful hearts, our Father, for all thy mercies, and make us mindful and present for the needs of others; through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Indeed the Kingdom of God is found within and among us.
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Written by Buzzy Mize

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