As we continue this week's focus, seeking to put love into action, today we're going to look at

at how simply being present can make all the difference in the life of another.

As a world becomes more and more distracted, and takes less time to notice what's happening

in the life of another.

May God empower us as his people to simply be present today.

Welcome to the first 15 podcast.

One of the most comforting aspects of God's character is that he is present.

Jesus made clear God's desire to be present when he left his throne and took on humanity.

God has never desired distance with his children.

He fights to have close relationship with us every day.

This week we're looking at how we can not only receive God's

word, but experience more of God through being doers of His word. So today, let's explore how we can

follow the example of Jesus and be present for those around us. Being present in people's lives

always requires sacrifice. It requires stepping

outside of what will solely benefit you in order to live for the benefit of others.

Philippians 2-3 teaches us, do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility,

count others more significant than yourselves. Jesus counted you and me more

significant than his own life. He died so that we might live, and he calls us to do the same. Luke 923 says,

if anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow

me. John 1224 makes it clear that in order to bear fruit in this life we must die to ourselves.

Truly, truly I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains

alone. But if it dies, it remains alone.

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