Present

Back in the day it was proper to respond “Present” when the teacher called your name on the roll. I could not tell you what responses kids make these days to alert the fact that they are indeed physically in attendance.

The past weekend put this word in a whole different context, in more ways than I can count.

It’s one thing to be present for an event. If you’ve been invited, it’s respectful to be present, especially if you’ve RSVP’d. Another thing entirely to be present for someone in their time of need. Each of these examples are situations of notability. Most likely effort is noted and appreciated whether by physical expression or a mental note, typically a hug, “Howdy!” or a nod. Believe it or not handwritten notes can still be utilized as a sign of response to someone being present.

What about those who are present but seem to be unnoticed?

Sometimes people work behind the scenes and willingly spend much time and effort to ensure an event is spectacular: a meeting, a party, a celebration and the like. I’ve witnessed many times the accolades raised for those hard-working folk who are seen moving things around and doing tasks that are noticeable, and the ones who really did the dirty work, the hard stuff, the long-hours and the heavy-lifting, go unsaid…seemingly unnoticed. Unthanked.

Jesus was like that. People didn’t like who He said He was and didn’t believe Him mostly. So often we can be caught up in our asks and forget who answered those fervent prayers when the answers finally come.

For all those, like Jesus, who help make that water into the “best stuff” that gets served first, I see you. You must be present or things would run off the rails. It’s people like you, like Jesus too, who don’t do it for the glory and recognition, you do it because it’s the right thing to do. You’re selfless and kind. Patient and loving. You are present. Present at the right time. In the right place. For the right reasons. I would even speculate that Jesus is present in your heart too…that’s the greatest Present anyone could ask for, and there isn’t anything anyone can do for it, except accept it.

Proverbs 15:3