The Power of Presence: Witnessing Through Compassion

Devotional

Day 1: Presence Over Words

In moments of grief and despair, the most profound comfort often comes not from eloquent words or grand gestures, but from the silent solidarity of someone who chooses to simply be there. The Ministry of Presence is about embodying the silent strength and unwavering support that the women at the cross provided to Jesus. It is a ministry that does not rely on the perfect phrase or solution but instead offers the powerful gift of companionship in suffering. This form of ministry mirrors the way God is with us, a constant presence that does not waver, even when we face the darkest of times. It is a reminder that in the midst of our own trials, we are called to be a living testament to God's love by being present for others, offering our presence as a sanctuary of comfort and hope. [01:08:19]

"Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep." - Romans 12:15 (ESV)

Reflection: Who in your community is experiencing a difficult time, and how can you offer them your presence this week without the need for words?

Day 2: Silent Witness of Faithfulness

The women at the cross serve as a profound example of faithfulness through their silent witness. Their presence was a powerful statement of loyalty and devotion, despite the absence of recorded words or actions. This teaches us that the true measure of discipleship is not always found in the visibility of our actions but in the quiet consistency of our presence. Being there for someone can be a deeply spiritual act, one that honors the sacredness of their experience without the need for recognition or applause. It is a humble service that echoes the selfless love Christ has for us, a love that is present in silence and in speech, in action and in stillness. [01:09:02]

"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." - Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV)

Reflection: How can you practice being a silent witness of faithfulness in someone's life this week, offering support without seeking acknowledgment?

Day 3: Building Bonds of Support

The Ministry of Presence is deeply rooted in the relationships we build within our community. The bonds formed during times of joy and fellowship are the very fibers that hold us together when we face sorrow and trials. These connections are not incidental; they are intentional acts of discipleship that prepare us to be present for one another in meaningful ways. As we share in each other's lives, we create a network of support that reflects the love and compassion of Christ, enabling us to embody His presence in the lives of others. This interconnectedness is a testament to the strength and resilience of a community bound by shared faith and mutual care. [01:09:59]

"Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." - Galatians 6:2 (ESV)

Reflection: What are some ways you can strengthen your relationships within your faith community to build a more robust network of support?

Day 4: Generosity as Presence

The act of giving, whether it be our time, resources, or attention, is an extension of the Ministry of Presence. When we give selflessly, we are participating in a form of ministry that draws us closer to God and to one another. This spirit of generosity is not about fulfilling an obligation but about living out our discipleship in tangible ways. It is a reflection of God's generosity towards us, and it fosters a culture of service within our community. As we give, we are reminded that our offerings are more than just material gifts; they are expressions of our commitment to be present in the lives of others, sharing in both their joys and their struggles. [47:38]

"Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you." - Luke 6:38 (ESV)

Reflection: In what ways can you extend your presence through acts of generosity this week, and how might this deepen your connections with others?

Day 5: Valuing Diverse Perspectives

The varied accounts of the women at the cross in the Gospels remind us that there are many ways to bear witness to Christ's love and sacrifice. Each Gospel writer presents the story with different details, highlighting the importance of our unique perspectives and contributions. Our individual experiences and insights are valuable in the collective narrative of faith. By valuing the diversity within our community, we can learn from one another and grow in our understanding of what it means to follow Christ. This appreciation for different viewpoints enriches our shared journey and helps us to see the multifaceted ways in which God is at work in our lives and in the world. [55:06]

"For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another." - Romans 12:4-5 (ESV)

Reflection: How can you embrace and learn from the diverse perspectives within your faith community, and how might this enhance your collective witness?

Sermon Summary

In today's sermon, I explored the profound concept of the Ministry of Presence, drawing from the poignant narrative of the women at the cross during Jesus' crucifixion. I shared a personal story from my early days in ministry, reflecting on the time when I was called to comfort a parishioner whose son had tragically taken his own life. In that moment of deep sorrow and uncertainty, I realized that sometimes the most powerful ministry we can offer is simply being present with those who are suffering.

The women at the cross, mentioned in Mark's Gospel, exemplify this ministry. They had no spoken lines, no grand gestures, but their steadfast presence at the foot of the cross during Jesus' darkest hour was a testament to their unwavering devotion. They had followed Jesus from Galilee, caring for his needs, and their presence at the crucifixion was the culmination of a long journey of faithful companionship.

This narrative invites us to consider the importance of being present in the lives of others, not only in times of crisis but throughout all seasons of life. The relationships we build and the support we offer in the good times lay the foundation for the moments when we are called to stand alongside someone in their darkest hour.

As we continue to journey through the season of Lent, we are reminded of the sacrifices made and the example set by those who were witnesses at the cross. We are called to reflect on our own witness and the ways in which we can embody the Ministry of Presence in our community and beyond.

Key Takeaways

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Bible Reading

Mark 15:37-41 (NRSV) — > "Then Jesus gave a loud cry and breathed his last. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. Now when the centurion, who stood facing him, saw that in this way he breathed his last, he said, 'Truly this man was God’s Son!' There were also women looking on from a distance; among them were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joses, and Salome. These used to follow him and provided for him when he was in Galilee; and there were many other women who had come up with him to Jerusalem."

2. Mark 14:32-42 (NRSV)
> "They went to a place called Gethsemane; and he said to his disciples, 'Sit here while I pray.' He took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be distressed and agitated. And he said to them, 'I am deeply grieved, even to death; remain here, and keep awake.' And going a little farther, he threw himself on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. He said, 'Abba, Father, for you all things are possible; remove this cup from me; yet, not what I want, but what you want.' He came and found them sleeping; and he said to Peter, 'Simon, are you asleep? Could you not keep awake one hour? Keep awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.' And again he went away and prayed, saying the same words. And once more he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy; and they did not know what to say to him. He came a third time and said to them, 'Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? Enough! The hour has come; the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Get up, let us be going. See, my betrayer is at hand.'"

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Observation Questions

What actions did the women at the cross take according to Mark 15:40-41?
In Mark 14:32-42, what were the disciples Peter, James, and John asked to do, and how did they respond?
What is the significance of the women being present at the crucifixion and the resurrection according to the sermon? ([48:40])
How does the pastor describe the Ministry of Presence in his personal story? ([01:08:19])

Interpretation Questions

Why do you think the women’s presence at the cross was significant, even though they did not speak or perform any actions? ([48:40])
What does the pastor mean by the Ministry of Presence, and how does it relate to the women at the cross? ([01:08:19])
How does the pastor’s personal story of comforting a parishioner illustrate the concept of the Ministry of Presence? ([01:08:19])
In what ways do the relationships we build in times of joy prepare us for being present in times of sorrow, according to the sermon? ([01:09:02])

Application Questions

Reflect on a time when someone’s presence made a significant difference in your life during a difficult moment. How did their presence impact you?
How can you practice the Ministry of Presence in your own community? Identify a specific person or situation where you can be present this week. ([01:08:19])
Consider the relationships you have built within your church community. How can you strengthen these bonds to better support each other in times of need? ([01:09:02])
The pastor mentioned that the Ministry of Presence is not about having the right words or actions but about being there. How can you overcome the fear of not knowing what to say or do in such situations? ([01:08:19])
Think about the women at the cross who were present without fanfare or recognition. How can you apply this humble approach to your acts of service and support for others? ([48:40])
Identify one way you can contribute to building a supportive network within your church that reflects the love and compassion of Christ. What steps will you take to make this happen? ([01:09:59])
Reflect on the diverse accounts of the women at the cross in the Gospels. How can you appreciate and value the unique perspectives and contributions of others in your faith community? ([55:06])

Sermon Clips

I think many of you know that I had a little brother who was killed. Now, I didn't even know that term at the time, Ministry of Presence. I learned that later, people that have taken Stephen Ministry presence, Stephen Ministry training, know all about the Ministry of Presence. But it is one of the most important things that we can do for someone is just to be there with them. [01:07:31]( | | )

Notice that the women in this story, they have no lines. They stood at a distance. But they were there with Jesus. And I can't help but think as Jesus was looking down from the cross and saw them that at least it brought them some comfort. Just like when I showed up at that woman's house after her son had taken his life. [01:08:19]( | | )

The Ministry of Presence. That is some of the most important work that we can do for one another. But here's the thing, it just doesn't start with being with somebody at the most dark time of their life. That's part of it for sure. But there's a way to get there. I think this passage tells us that these women had followed Jesus from Galilee and cared for his needs. [01:09:02]( | | )

Our Ministry of Presence is not confined to moments of crisis. It is built upon a foundation of relationship and investment. We walk alongside others in their daily lives. We offer support and encouragement. We prepare ourselves to be present when they need us most. [01:09:59]( | | )

Oh God, this morning we bring our gifts not out of pride, not out of a sense of trying to have control, not out of a sense of being a part of some grand fundraiser, Lord, but we bring these gifts, Lord, as an act of discipleship, realizing that as we come with our hands and our hearts open, Lord, presenting to you what you have so graciously given to us, Lord, that somehow in that an act of stewardship prevails in which we are drawn closer into your service and into your following. [47:38]( | | )

Each of the Gospels tell the story in slightly different ways. For example, the resurrection in John's Gospel, the only person that's mentioned being there is Mary Magdalene. In one of the other Gospels, it mentions that there were, it just says women. And then there's another Gospel where there's only two named women, Mary, Mary Magdalene, and it says the other Mary. [55:06]( | | )

And so as we look at those that were there at the crucifixion, those witnesses at the cross, we need to ask ourselves, what is our witness going to be? What are we going to learn from those, from the good and the bad? You know, the cautionary tales of the scoffers and the bystanders to those who were led and came to Christ, professed Christ at the cross, the thief who professed Jesus and asked him to remember him in paradise, the centurion who said, surely it's the Son of God. [01:11:04]( | | )

And so let's continue to work within this body here at Hickory Flat to form those close relationships so that we may be a support one another in the good and in the bad. Go now in God's peace and may God's peace be with you. Amen. [01:15:12]( | | )

And so it's at this point in the story that Mark mentions that there were women there. A.J. Levine who wrote the book said, well thanks a lot Mark. It's almost kind of like as an afterthought. But knowing that there were women present throughout Jesus' ministry, you begin to look at those gospel stories differently, right? [52:17]( | | )

The truth is, as you look at the gospel, you see that Jesus interacted with women all the time. And think about what we've mentioned, Mary Magdalene. But think about the woman that was healed of the bleeding condition of hemorrhage. Jesus chose, she was the one who touched the hem. She said, if I could just touch the hem of his garment, then I'll be healed. [53:14]( | | )

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