THE MINISTRY OF PRESENCE
Showing Up Is Sometimes Enough
Key Verse:
“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”
—Romans 12:15
The Importance of Showing Up
In ministry, we are often tempted to measure our effectiveness by our words, strategies, or innovations. Sermons must be powerful, plans must be polished, and programs must be productive. But sometimes, what people need most isn’t a sermon, a slogan, or a system—they need a shepherd. They need someone to show up.
The ministry of presence is perhaps one of the most overlooked and undervalued expressions of pastoral care. It doesn’t demand eloquence. It doesn't rely on charisma. It doesn't require a crowd. It simply requires a heart willing to be near.
Jesus Practiced Presence
When Lazarus died, Jesus didn’t rush to preach a message. He wept. He came to be with Mary and Martha before He ever spoke a word (John 11:32–35). His tears ministered just as deeply as His eventual miracle. His presence conveyed compassion that words alone could not express.
When Jesus walked with the two discouraged disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13–35), they didn’t recognize Him at first, but His nearness comforted them. It was only after walking, talking, and sharing a meal that their eyes were opened. His presence preceded their revelation.
Presence in Pastoral Ministry
Pastor, one of the most Christlike things you can do is simply be there. Sit beside the grieving. Pray in silence with the fearful. Laugh with the joyful. Listen to the lonely. These seemingly small acts carry eternal significance.
You may not always have the answers. You may not know what to say. But your presence says: “You are not alone. God sees you. I am with you.” That is often more powerful than the best-crafted homily.
We live in a world of digital distance—text messages instead of handshakes, live streams instead of living rooms. In such an age, your physical presence can feel like a miracle. Showing up may not trend online, but it transforms hearts.
Don't Underestimate It
You might think, “But I didn’t do anything.” Exactly. You didn’t fix, solve, or perform. You simply were. And sometimes, that is more than enough. Ministry is not always about movement—it’s often about stillness, presence, and shared humanity.
Never underestimate the power of standing in a hospital room, sitting in a nursing home, walking through a cemetery, or being quietly available after a sermon. These moments may seem small, but they reflect the heart of the Great Shepherd.
Prayer Thought
Lord, help me to value presence over performance. Teach me to sit in the silence with others, to offer comfort with compassion, and to be a faithful reflection of Your nearness to the brokenhearted. Use my presence—even when I feel inadequate—for Your glory.
Pastoring Tip
Don’t rush out after Sunday services. Linger. Listen. Be available. The ministry that happens after the benediction may be more powerful than the message itself. Schedule margin into your week for unplanned moments of presence.
Sermons You Can Take With You
When you’re caring for others, preparing for Sunday doesn’t always feel easy. That’s why we created the 25 Short Sermons Series of Books—a reliable collection of biblically-rich, ready-to-use outlines to help lighten the load.
Note: All Scripture from the NIV Bible Translation.