Finding God’s Presence in My Neighbor’s Backyard

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Confession:  I struggle to sit my butt down in my sacred space and spend time with God.  So, this morning when I finally was able to get there, I was presented with a challenge from my husband to walk away from it.

Our neighbor, Joy, is 70 years old and has been battling cancer for several years.  She is a warrior.  So is her daughter, Carolyn.  Together they are a quiet force against this devastating disease.  Joy is a Christian of great strength and fortitude.  Carolyn told us this week that Joy’s time with us is now down to just a few months.

My hubby’s bond with Joy runs deep.  He came into my room this morning to say that a large tree branch had fallen in their back yard, and Carolyn was asking for help to remove it.  He wondered if I would like to come help in the tree removal.  Almost as an afterthought he mentioned he was struggling with what to say to Carolyn and Joy.  I could see in his eyes a deep sadness.  I told him at these times, words do not work so much and presence is so much more powerful.  I hesitated about going.  I am so protective of these rare times I have to meditate and commune with God, so I declined.

About thirty minutes later, in the midst of my study, the Lord had a Word with me.  Yes, clear as day, just shy of being audible, in a flash of transcendence, I heard:

“I appreciate that you want to be in My Presence.  But, my presence is over there, so go be in My Presence over there.  Work out your salvation over there, hauling branches and sweating and doing service for my child.  This land across the street is fast becoming Holy ground. The thin veil between heaven and earth will soon lift. This is where you need to be.”

In a moment, two things became crystal clear:  that what my dear husband was really saying to me was that he needed me to be “present” with him in his space of grief.  And, number two, that the Lord wanted to deliver some mercy this morning to these two ladies, and He wanted both my husband and I to deliver it. 

I never moved so fast in my life…throwing off my good clothes, getting on work clothes and shoes.  I started out walking and ended up running. I couldn’t get there fast enough.  I was desperately seeking the presence of the Lord this morning.  Thank God I quickly realized He was across the street!

When God speaks that clearly, put your running shoes on and get moving!