It is good to visit people who are sick, dying, shut in, handicapped, or lonely. But it is also important not to feel guilty when our visits have to be short or can only happen occasionally. Often we are so apologetic about our limitations that our apologies prevent us from really being with the other when we are there. A short time fully present to a sick person is much better than a long time with many explanations of why we are too busy to come more often.
If we are able to be fully present to our friends when we are with them, our absence too will bear many fruits. Our friends will say: "He visited me" or "She visited me," and discover in our absence the lasting grace of our presence.
For further reflection...
"Even though my illness was a trial to you, you did not treat me with contempt or scorn. Instead you welcomed me as if I were an angel of God, as if I were Christ Jesus himself." - Galatians 4: 14 (NIV)
Your response...
You can leave the "lasting grace" of your presence by being fully present in the moment. Where will you go today? Comment on this Daily Meditation.
Continue the Inspiration
Purchase your copy of Henri Nouwen's book "Aging".
You can now search Henri's Daily Meditations by theme. Learn more here...
Consider our monthly giving program to sustain the ability to extend Henri's legacy and make his work available to those who seek spiritual formation and nourishment. Click here to sign up today.
No comments:
Post a Comment