The power of showing up: embracing God’s presence in every moment
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In our walk with Christ, we often find that the simplest actions can have the most profound impact. Sometimes, when words fail or when we feel unprepared, God reminds us that our presence alone—our willingness to simply "show up"—can speak volumes. This truth was vividly brought to life in a personal journey and in the life of a brave woman in Kenya.
A personal journey of faith and vulnerability
I once faced a moment of deep uncertainty when a dear friend was hospitalized after a tragic accident. Overwhelmed by the gravity of his suffering, I doubted my ability to offer comfort. I wrestled with the thought that I wasn't "good enough" and that I lacked the right words.
In my struggle, a wise pastor friend shared a simple yet powerful piece of advice: sometimes the only thing to do is to show up and shut up.
With that encouragement, I stepped into his hospital room and sat quietly by his side. In that moment, my presence became an unspoken testament of God's love—a tangible reminder that we are never alone in our trials.
A divine encounter on the footpath
This message of simply being present took on new meaning through the story of Hellen, a middle-aged mother living in the harsh realities of Athi River, Kenya. Wandering in despair and wrestling with suicidal thoughts, Hellen encountered a team from The Bucket Ministry.
In that divine moment, God provided the missionaries with the wisdom to share His love right along the footpath. As Hellen listened, the encouraging Word of God pierced through her darkness. She found hope in the promise of an eternal gift from the Lord and, moved by this encounter, embraced Christ. Her transformation was so profound that she later chose baptism, publicly declaring her newfound commitment to following Jesus.
Embracing the call to simply be present
Both of these stories remind us that our actions—no matter how small—can have an eternal impact. In times of uncertainty or despair, when our hearts are heavy and our words seem insufficient, we are called to be the embodiment of Christ's love.
Showing up, even without perfect words, can be a powerful act of compassion and a clear message of hope. It is in these moments that God works through us to provide comfort, encouragement, and a reminder that His presence is always near.
As we navigate the challenges of life, may we always remember that sometimes our greatest ministry is found in our willingness to simply be there for others. In doing so, we mirror the love of Christ, offering hope and transforming lives—one quiet, compassionate act at a time.
 | Christopher Beth is the Founder, Chief Storyteller and Director of The Bucket Ministry, a nonprofit organization that works to provide the love of Jesus and clean water solutions to communities in need around the world. Learn More » |
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