As the name implies, this expressive practice is all about being there for someone else. Sometimes called the ministry of presence, a person who practices this is the person who is always there when you need them. They aren’t necessarily there talking or doing; often they are entirely silent, but they will not leave a hurting person to suffer alone if they are sick, injured, or distraught.

A person who practices this spiritual discipline feels closest to God when ministering to the hurting, and oft times they bring the hurting person closer God in the process, for God is present through them.

Although the person may not be speaking aloud, they may well be in silent prayer for the one who is in pain of whatever sort, and in this, they may well have the spiritual gift of mercy.

I hope that you can see that what I am trying to describe here is not a “visitation” of the sick or injured. A visitation is a short visit to pray and encourage, and then to leave. The practice of presence means that the person remains when most others have gone home. They may sit by someone’s bedside all night or stay with the them when everyone else has gone to work or school. If the hurting or sick one needs help or something to eat, they are there. If they need a nap, they are there when the nap is over; do you see the difference?

I would welcome any comments relating to this one. Do you engage in this practice? Have you been blessed by someone else in this way?