Being Present

I've really been feeling convicted recently to put my phone down, put it on silent, and really focus on the people right there in front of me. It chimes with every notification and incoming message. But why do I feel the need to check email/text/facebook/twitter right in the middle of a conversation that I'm having with someone face to face?! What could be that important that I can't put the world on hold and focus on someone in that moment who actually matters?

We're always distracted. The busyness never seems to end. There are always multiple things vying for our attention all at once. We're always connected, and yet how often are we really connecting? We're interacting on so many different levels with tens/hundreds/thousands of people, and yet I question whether or not we are ever fully invested in anyone? When was the last time we truly spent time with people? Even more importantly, when was the last time we really gave GOD our undivided attention? Do we ever just STOP and listen? What does being present even look like?

I've been mulling over the challenge we received at Catalyst Atlanta this year:
Are you willing to be present??

And I really appreciated their examples of what being present really looks like in a practical way:

• Being present means wherever you are, you are all there. It's our responsibility to embrace what God has put squarely in front of us.
• Being present means when talking with someone, you look them in the eyes and listen. Not looking over their shoulder to see whom else is there. Be all there.
• Being present is about focusing on and embracing the NOW. Not just passing through a moment to get to the next thing, but instead focusing on the right now, the present, the Today.
• Being present is about engaging and listening to those right in front of you.
• Being present means you're all in when you're at home. You engage with your spouse and kids.
• Being present means creating margin that allows for interruptions and moment of inconvenience, which can be moments when God does the greatest work through us.
• Being present means consumed by Jesus and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Because He is Present.
• Being present means balancing a culture of distraction and consumption with a commitment to solitude and silence.
• Being present is about staying. It's about showing up and never leaving. Having presence in a place, location or context. Being connected to an address, a neighborhood, a city, a zip code.
• Being present means embracing the role that God has given you right now, and bearing fruit in and through your life.
• Being present means being involved in the community you are located in. Existing in community and not always trying to "create" community. Knowing and loving your neighbors.
• Being present means being deeply rooted. Having maturity, and tremendous depth. Not being anxious and overbearing or sporadic.
• Being present means being in relationship. Incarnational ministry. Creating disciples. Presence demands relationship. Being available to those around you, and casting self aside and focusing on the needs of others. Knowing those around you deeply.
• Being present is more than just attending an event. It's more than just showing up. It's being a part of a moment. It's a way of life.

And don't be wishing you were someplace else or with someone else. Where you are right now is God's place for you. Live and obey and love and believe right there.