Usually when I read this verse it is a lot cooler than the eighty degrees it is today! Even though we are way past the Christmas Season, I want to ask if you have ever had anyone say to you when you were going through a difficult time, “I am with you”? It is as if a big, warm, supporting hand is behind you. Someone has ‘got your back’ and you are no longer alone in your struggle. So how can you represent Jesus Christ Immanuel who is “God with us” to others?
Most of all, I think it requires you to be fully present. Your mind is not distracted by other things and you are open to really listening to what is being said. You are not trying to fix anyone or anything. Don’t be surprised if you discover this is challenging at times. You may notice you feel anxious when you choose to be with someone who may be sharing their pain. Rather than trying to fix your anxiety by ‘fixing’ the person in front of you, try opening your heart to simply being “with”.
Also, notice how comfortable you are being with your feelings, especially when they are big. I have learned that only if I am comfortable with my inner reality will I be able to be with yours. If I push against your intense feelings, I create distance between us. “With” opens space for truly connecting.
It is like an eagle riding a current…when there is no resistance…it can soar.
People grow best in the soil of acceptance. Therefore, being with someone on their journey provides an incredible opportunity to change. Together you can navigate new territory. I invite you to practice being “with”. Begin by being with yourself…with all your feelings, unanswered questions, and loose ends. The more comfortable you and I become at that, the better prepared we will be to reflect ‘God with us’ to others.
Lord, thank you that you are always with us. Help us to choose being “with” instead of against whenever we are in the presence of others.
We ask this in the precious name of Immanuel, Amen.
Until next time...Blessings!
Deb