The Present of God’s Presence

Kim’s service went well yesterday. Our church was full. We told funny stories: ‘Mark and Belinda got a frantic call from Kim saying she was stuck under her bed and needed urgent help…’

We heard: ‘When you saw only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you.’

We sung: ‘Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death… I will fear no evil for my God is with me’.

Many shared their memories.

Yesterday was the fourth funeral/ thanksgiving service I’ve attended in a fortnight – Janet, Madeline, Clive, Kim; each was a valued, loved part of our church family. Sadness… tears… but each occasion was a celebration of a good life well lived.

I’ve been reflecting on my mortality, and grateful for my life, health, family, friends… and God’s presence…

I have seen God present in…

…life. Life-stories have been told – ordinary, yet extra-ordinary people. It’s clear; God has been there, providing strength, wisdom, guidance, protection. In the business of everyday life God has been there.

…family. It’s been great to see families coming together – helping, caring, supporting each other. The God-given gift of a loving family is so precious.

…church. Seeing our minister, Lou, showing care, empathy, leading services that honour the lives and memories of our friends; seeing our church family come together in faith and support for our friends.

…variety. Although the life-celebrations have been about Christians in a Christian church, family members have come from various places of faith and belief. God’s been there in all.

…sickness. Each of my four friends suffered with a significant illness, but it’s clear that God was with them in their worst times, their ‘valley of the shadow…’

…death. Even in… perhaps especially in… the passing of a loved one we’ve seen and known the ‘peace that passes understanding’, the ‘sure and certain hope’.

God’s presence is a present. It’s an old cliché, but the last two weeks have made me even more convinced that it’s true. It’s a gift that I gratefully receive.