A Ministry of Presence

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” – Matthew 11: 28-30

I recently read an article in the Decision magazine which is a publication of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. It shared about the many relief efforts that the rapid response teams of the organization have been involved with lately. They were on the scene of many natural disasters caused by twisters and flooding as well as school shootings. Their chaplains were deployed and ready to help in a moments notice.

What caught my attention was the comment, “they offered a ministry of presence.” So many times we see the tragedies of life unfold in the lives of those around us and wonder, “what can I do? how can I help?” While the answer to those questions may vary by each situation, we always have to opportunity to offer a ministry of presence.

Billy Graham said in one of his sermons that his main focus in his ministry was to let people know that God loves them. That love is not just words to be said during the challenges of life, but to be experienced when we put them into action and demonstrate the love of God.

Bearing one another’s burdens means that we share the load, we meet the hurting right in the middle of their pain and we love them. We stand with them and encourage them with the truth that Jesus knows, sees and has already made a way for them. Sometimes that love speaks loudest when we don’t speak at all, just listen and let them unload their emotions and tears. A simple hugs speaks volumes.

In that ministry of presence we have the privilege of leading them to the One who can and will give them rest. When we physically cannot be with them we can intercede for them in prayer, bringing them and their situations to the throne of God – into His presence where the love of God will minister to their weary souls.

Father, Thank you for the example of those who go and minister in any and every way possible for You. I pray that I will be more mindful of the opportunities to offer a ministry of presence to those around me and to intercede for those who are far away. In Jesus’ name, amen.