By Pastor Ronald Bernier, Master Builder Ministries Inc. Fall River MA
Yesterday, after two days of cleaning a closed church, there were only two us left finishing up what we had begun with many volunteer helpers the day before. My wife came to bring some sandwiches to refresh us. When we stopped and prayed over the humble meal, the presence of God filled the room and brought me to tears. People argue over things considered holy, but miss the whole idea of holiness. Holiness is not found in things (buildings, altars, oils or artifacts), holiness is found in the person of Jesus.
When Moses was leading the people of Israel, he prayed to know God’s way and Person that he might find grace to lead Israel, God’s people. The Lord answered him:
“My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Exodus 33:14
Moses responded in prayer to the Lords words words by saying:
“If Your Presence does not go with us, do not bring us up from here. For how then will it be known that Your people and I have found grace in Your sight, except You go with us? So we shall be separate, Your people and I, from all people who are upon the face of the earth.” Exodus 33:15-16
The Lord again answered:
“I will also do this thing that you have spoken; for you have found grace in My sight, and I know you by name.” Exodus 33:17
Moses asked one more thing to see the Lord’s glory, to which the Lord obliged. Shouldn’t that be our prayer also, to see the Lord’s glory. With our kids grown up and families of their own, our house is quiet this morning. As I embraced my wife today, I said, “We are most blessed, this all we need - the Lord in our midst.”
For me, those times when we bow and sense the Lord’s presence, gives us encouragement of His grace and continued guidance. I am thankful for His Presence and assurance of being with us. This is the assurance that motivates us forward even when moving forward can be scary. His Presence over our lunch encourages me forward. May you find a quiet place with His Presence to see you assured of His grace in your life. May His Presence go with you. May He reveal to you His glory. May we all obediently move toward His promise with His enabling strength in the days ahead.