This week, I was in the presence of a man who lost his wife a few months ago. They would’ve been married 65 years (June 5). Having just celebrated our 40th anniversary this past week (June 2), I sat with amazement as he told me stories of their friendship. It was so heartwarming to be in the presence of such a kind-hearted, gracious and happy man. The last five years of their marriage wasn’t easy, as Don’s wife battled Alzheimer’s. The last two years were especially difficult as he had to make the difficult decision to place her in a care facility. Don would visit her daily, laying by her side, feeding her, talking and singing to her.
“You show me the path of life.
In your presence there is fullness of joy;
in your right hand are pleasures for evermore.”
Psalm 16:11 NRSV
My time with Don was like being in the presence of God. In fact, I totally sensed God’s presence as Don spoke of his love for his wife. I’m encouraged to be more mindful of my Father’s presence. Through all the internal and external challenges I’m facing, the grace of His presence draws my attention to focus on God. I want to trust God to reveal Himself to me.
Have you experienced a fullness of joy lately? I believe our God is sooooooo good, sooooooo loving and gracious that He initiates revealing His life—the path of life, the life of joy. May we respond to the Psalmist call to come into His presence with thanksgiving, to worship Him with joy and songs of praise! (Psalm 95:2)
“… As we come to know Him better we shall spend more time in His presence and find that presence a constant and ever-increasing delight.”
E.M. Bounds
