Presence

Lord, thank you for being my companion on life’s journey, each day, and in each moment, including this one. Help me to tune in to your presence now…

Scripture

James 1:22-25

²² But be doers of the word and not merely hearers who deceive themselves. ²³ For if any are hearers of the word and not doers, they are like those who look at themselves in a mirror; ²⁴ for they look at themselves and, on going away, immediately forget what they were like. ²⁵ But those who look into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and persevere, being not hearers who forget but doers who act – they will be blessed in their doing.

Reflection

Passive listening is something we all do at times. We’re often too busy multitasking to really pay attention to what someone is trying to say to us. We split our attention two, three, or four ways, with no one thing getting all of us. Our attention spans are short. We’re like the person who looks in the mirror and then forgets what they see as soon as they look away. And so it is with our faith. When we leave Mass on Sunday, we forget. We may call ourselves Christians, but do we behave like Christ? Every day? 

Closing prayer

Dear Lord, give me the opportunity today to set aside all distractions and really pay attention to one person, one conversation. Help me be fully present for them. To really listen. And to do what I can to help, if my help is needed. Help me live my faith.  Amen.