Chapter 45
Stoop down and reach out to those who are oppressed. Share their burdens, and so complete Christ’s law. Galations 6.2 MSG
When God reveals His name to Moses as “I AM WHO I AM” (Exodus 3:14), He shows Himself as the God of Presence: the One who is with us and for us. The incarnation of Christ is the ultimate proof of this presence: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14). Emmanuel—“God with us”—is not just a name but the essence of God’s closeness to His creation, including humanity.
People of faith face an important challenge: How can we work toward healing and unity rather than deepening division? How can we create spaces of connection, even in times of separation? This calling requires a special wisdom in how we communicate and an openness to each other, combined with spiritual and practical support to bridge relational rifts.
With gratitude, we acknowledge God’s presence in all these efforts and thank those who act as His hands and feet in the mission of presence—partners, friends, and family who walk with us; those who pray and give; those who encourage with words and deeds; those who take risks for others; and those who create spaces from which we can look to the future with shared hope.
These reflections lead me to deeper questions: Who is present in my life? In whose life am I truly present? Who are we, co-present with each other in the mission of revealing Christ’s presence? How can my presence become a space for God’s action and a source of hope for others? Where am I particularly called to be present?
As Christ became the visible sign of the invisible God, our presence in each other’s lives is called to be a visible sign of His unseen but very real presence—a presence that is deeply needed in our world, divided by conflict, where embodied signs of His love and faithfulness shine as a beacon of hope.
Paraphrased and summarized from a text called “Journey Home”.
Wishing a very present start to this new week.
Philemon