him of God ’ s dealings , of why it happened , and hope beyond the grave . The person talked constantly and said things that Joseph knew were true . Joseph was unmoved , except to wish that the person would go away . The person finally did . Then another came and sat beside him . He did not talk . He did not ask any leading questions . He just sat beside him for over an hour , listened when Joseph said something , answered briefly , prayed simply , and left . Joseph was moved and comforted . He hated to see him go . The point is there is incredible comfort in someone ’ s presence , and it is a tremendous gift to place in someone ’ s proverbial stocking this year .
Perhaps you are blessed this year and are in full swing of the season , and your stocking is full . As you celebrate and relish family traditions , Frosty , Rudolph , eggnog , and yuletide tales around the fireplace ; keep an eye and ear out for those who are lonely or going through a tough season in life and be intentional with your presence . The only thing that matters in this life is our relationships with other people . Do not shy away from an opportunity to press into someone ’ s life – be engaged and be present . Be aware of indicators of emotional suffering and be a good listening ear to people in need . Take the time to ask how others are doing , try to listen to them without judging them , and help them get professional care if the problems are serious . In the Air Force , we call it being a good
wingman . The idea is simple and clear : be present with your wingman in all possibly dangerous or questionable situations . Keep your wingman out of trouble or , in some cases , make sure they do not get in trouble alone .
Perhaps you are one with life events that diminish the light of the season . Take heart , have hope , and be receptive to the presence of someone in your life . Know that you are important , and loved , even when it may not seem like it . May I encourage you to take the time to commemorate all the reasons that mark this time of year , be it the birth of a child born in a manger , an eightday festival of lights , or another faith tradition . Will you take the hand of someone reaching out to be present in your life ?
The social isolation we have experienced in this pandemic year is the unrelenting norm for many lonely people . Let us never again take for granted our need for personal contact . When has your heart craved the grace of presence ? Have you experienced that gift ? Can you think of a few lonely people with whom you could share that gift and be more present ? Who is someone in your life that you could love by offering the grace of your presence ? What would that look like ? Realize that while you may often feel like doing something , your presence may be the best present you can give and the most important for someone to receive .
Merry Christmas , Happy Chanukah , Happy Holidays , and Happy New Year to all !
DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 39