The Greatest Present is Presence
Human social interaction is an inevitable notion that we come across every day in all of our lives. Whether it be chatting with someone at the bus stop, or thanking a sales clerk at a store, whatever the situation may be, as believers, relationship building is a crucial component in advancing and solidifying the Kingdom of God and sharing His love with others. Sometimes we do not know or fully understand the power or significance of simply giving people time and a chance to speak their heart. Time is a common denominator for all of us and acts as a catalyst that sets the stage for motives and desires, which may sometimes place boundaries in what we partake in.
Ultimately, love is the foundation and a determinant for a life that separates fear from freedom and is a key component in relationship building in a variety of ways. People want to be loved. Period. We see love fantasized romantically in movies and television, and as children, love is something that protects and cares for us. As previously mentioned, love is the basis of any kind of relationship, and when it becomes compromised, the traction needed to live a life in peace becomes significantly altered.
The Bible talks about love in a variety of ways and probably one of the most common scriptures quoted time and time again is 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7. It says,
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
To actively seek out the God-given potential in an individual, applying the characteristics of love in 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7 are a constructive way in seeking out and pursuing someone’s heart. Ephesians 4: 2 also says,
“Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love.”
To truly get to know someone, we must be willing to spend the time with them and administer the love of Christ to a fallen world and build relationships as displayed by Jesus over and over again when He dealt with people. As the Christmas season is fast approaching, and the hustle and bustle that it brings along with it, the greatest present to give someone is presence.
And so, we leave you with this word,
“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone,” (Colossians 4:5-6).
