Chaplain: The Power of Presence

By Allen Teal, Chaplain

We sent Timothy, who is our brother and co-worker in God’s service in spreading the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith. I Thessalonians 3:2, NIV

Being alone can be difficult. There is a reason that birds fly in flocks and four-footed animals migrate in herds. The group provides security and affords more opportunities to locate refuge and sustenance. While people do not travel in flocks or herds, everyone recognizes the benefits of having someone nearby when faced with challenges.

You need a willingness to be there.

Feeling unsure about what to say can deter us from reaching out to someone who is struggling. It may be enough to simply show up and sit with a friend or family member who is going through a tough episode. Your presence means a lot.

Encouragement comes from knowing that someone cares.

Nearly everyone has moments when they feel that no one cares. Your presence shows that you care. The knowledge that someone cares can lift the spirit and encourage someone to keep moving forward. It is far easier to show someone you care when you are nearby.

Strength increases when we know that we are not alone.

Trouble or grief has a way of isolating us, which makes us feel lonelier. When we realize that we are not alone in the valley, we feel a sense of strength. Darkness is always easier to navigate when we are not facing it by ourselves. The presence of other people can transform an impossible challenge into something that feels doable.

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