For the past few years, in early December I begin praying and thinking about what I want my “word” for the next year to be. Something that inspires me to more—a word that can be a filter for the way I live my life and the decisions I make. A couple years ago, God kept showing me, “Be Present.” But what does that really mean?
As a Queen of multi-tasking, there were always things I could be “doing” when I was having a conversation with someone, both on the phone or in person. Because there was always more “to do” than hours “to do” them in, I could justify and even be proud of the fact that I could accomplish so much instead of wasting time in just conversation – yikes!
Sometimes there would be a little prick in my conscience as I half-listened to my family, friends or co-workers. But I could always justify that I was capable and what other choice did I have? I had a lot of responsibilities, after all!
And let’s not even get started on the intrusion of our “smart” phones into the habit of being present. I don’t think there is any device more responsible for not being present than this one. But is it the device that is the issue … or is it us??
Our cell phones have become so integrated into our daily lives that it can feel impossible to disconnect. But that is my challenge to you and myself … when you are in community with another person or group of people, put your phone away and Be Present! After all, it wasn’t that many years ago that we did not have these devices attached to us – think how much better our relationships and conversations with others were at that time? It can be done! I’m going to accept my own challenge … I hope you will too!
That year, I had just had my impacted wisdom teeth removed after Thanksgiving (something I had been dreading for years!) so found myself with some extra down time during recovery. Since I didn’t know what to expect for recuperation, I had worked hard to do as much of the Christmas prep ahead of time. Decorations were up, shopping was done, and holiday baking had even been started. This put me in a wonderful position to rest in early December. When does that ever happen?!?
During that time of resting, reading, journaling and praying, the theme of “Be Present” continued to surface.
In my reading, there was a quote from Lois Tverberg that really resonated with me.
“The best plan is always Plan Be: Really Be – wherever you really are.
Really be wherever you are, and really be present to the gift of now, and really be given to God and people because this is how you become love.”
Ummm…wow! There’s a lot to digest there!
So I made the decision to Be Present. To stop the multi-tasking (and I have to admit sometimes it is still very hard to do!) Whether in person or on the phone, to Be Present with the person I am speaking to. And if I can’t, I try to get back to them at a time when I can give them all of my attention.
I wrote this in my prayer journal in early January, “Father, help me Be Present this year throughout each part of my day, giving it 100% to You to work through me. I want each person I am with to specifically feel I am fully present with them. And when I am doing my tasks or working, I want to do them 100% for You. I want to feel Your Presence with me at all times in all I do. Keep me close to You, Lord, every day.”
I recognized that this pattern was also present during my daily morning times with the Lord. So I wanted to make that renewed commitment to Be Present with Him as well as the people around me. I was reminded that He is always fully present with me!
Later that same year I was given the gift of a renewed marriage. I do not want to ever take that gift for granted. So daily I thank God for the gift of today--for life, for my husband and our marriage, and for the health and well-being of our loved ones today. Because I know it could all change in an instant, and I want to live in the day and be grateful for every current moment as it occurs.
As this was a many-year habit that needed to be changed, I created a personalized bracelet from Premier Designs Jewelry with my 2018 mantra, “Be Present” and wore it regularly throughout that year. Here’s the link if you’d like to create something similar with words that have a lot of meaning to you. (Personalized Jewelry)
Throughout the year, I enjoyed changes in my relationships. Some may not have noticed a difference, but those closest to me certainly did. And I felt the difference internally. There is a peace that comes from responding to what God is showing you, which as Lois said in her quote above, “… this is how you become love.”
Another part of Being Present is living in the present. Keeping our eyes focused on today. In Isaiah 43:18-19 (The Message) it reads, “Forget about what’s happened; don’t keep going over old history. Be alert, be present. I’m about to do something brand-new.”
What a beautiful promise! When we stay in the day, we will be more aware of the new things He is doing in and around us each and every day. I am certain God does new things each day, but we are not present enough to recognize them.
“Great is His faithfulness; His mercies begin afresh each morning.” (Lamentations 3:23 NLT)
So today … it’s a new day, and it’s a gift. There are probably challenging things going on in your life—there are mine. But today is still a gift from our Father. And when we stay present in the day, not only does that help us to be grateful for the good things; it helps us stay present in the lives of those around us. Those who may desperately need our presence and love, along with the Presence of our loving Father.
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