God’s presence with us

“What was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and our hands have touched, concerning the word of life—² and the life was revealed, and we have seen and testify and announce to you the eternal life which was with the Father and was revealed to us—³ what we have seen and heard, we announce to you also, in order that you also may have fellowship with us, and indeed our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ. ⁴ And these things we write, in order that our joy may be complete.” 1 John 1: 1-4

Living presence

The apostle John longs for us to know Jesus intimately. He overflows with infectious joy: “What was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and our hands have touched, concerning the word of life…” (1 John 1).  He can hardly contain the news he wants to share! God was not distant, but had come in the flesh. John held his hands, listened to him speak, and lived with him during his years on earth; he experienced Jesus with all of his senses.

Because Jesus has come in the flesh, He brings heaven down to earth. He has become a human being so we can experience God’s presence. John tells us that God revealed His life to us. The word revealed in Greek refers to something that was only partially known, which has now become more fully known. The life of God is revealed to us through a relationship with the person of His Son, Jesus.

With us

I want to know Him more deeply, especially at this time of year, but do I think of Jesus as a distant infant more than a living presence?  Do I really know my Lord? How can I make a more personal connection?

I suggest it may be helpful to take some time from our busy schedules and meditate on 1 John, chapter 1. Meditation means chewing over the words, much like a cow chews its cud. Too often, I am rushing through words, assuming I understand their meaning. God’s word, like His presence, has a way of penetrating my life as I slowly ponder it (chew on it). John is so excited to share with us something – or rather someone – that he has experienced.

The difference between a quick read and meditation is something like the difference between meeting someone on video chat versus sitting down and having a meal with them. Zoom chat works fairly well for sharing information, but it is not adequate for building deep relationships. We are made for relationships. We are wired for connection both with others and with God.

In the flesh

Take time to meditate on God’s word this Christmas to experience Christ’s presence. Although God is holy and lifted up, He is not distant. He came down to us in the flesh, as a human being, to live and to die for us.  Knowing Jesus is not just knowing facts about Him; knowing Him is knowing God personally. Jesus connects us with God, heart-to-heart.

For us who serve others through healthcare, this makes a big difference. As healthcare providers, we understand the importance of presence. Touch, listening, and voice are so important to patients who are suffering. Whether or not we have answers for questions patients are seeking, our presence can be part of the healing. We can be God’s presence when we know Jesus personally, as the apostle John did.

A Christian doctor friend of mine used to ask his patients, “Is there anything else I can do for you?” before leaving the hospital room. I remember one of them simply asked him to fluff the pillow, which he did. Simple acts of kindness can show others the presence of Christ working through us.