Your Absence is Present

I'll start off by sharing a list of various quotes from high school to now. 

Coming back from vacation or a day off of work, often eluded to, "I've missed you. It feels like it's been so long!" 

Class isn't the same without you. 

Church wasn't the same without you.

She was a great candidate, but she wasn't you.

You do your job so well and effortlessly.

You were the best Admin I've worked with thus far.

I thought you were joking when you said you were leaving, but I realized it wasn't April Fools Day.

You brightened my day.

I appreciate your smile.

I miss Nia. 

When you coming back home?

You are so patient.

You are so kind.

You are so generous.

You share your knowledge so effortlessly, thank you.

This manual is amazing. I hope you received a huge bonus. I wish you much success and I know you will succeed in whatever you do!

"Thank you Lord. Thank you Father." Those were the words that parted my lips, and moved my tongue. Gratitude to the God who chose me and chooses to use me in various ways for His glory.

In my adolescent days, receiving compliments based upon my character made me feel awkward. Even later in my young adult days. I know, I'm still young, but roll with me. Although, I loved and appreciated them, I never quite knew how to respond and receive it. Now, I take those non-physical compliments and reflect upon the Spirit of God's work in my life. The good in me is a reflection of Him (Romans 7:18). The adjectives in these compliments are pure attributes of the character of God, and so I thank Him. I thank Him for growth, using me for His glory and allowing His light to shine through me, that others may see. There's something about others complimenting you. At the end of the day, it's a subconscious Praise to God. 

You realize how great of an impact you've made, when your absence is felt. When your absence fills the hearts and minds of others, it's a presence in itself. May I always submit in full, quick obedience to God's direction. This is my aim. For God's presence to be felt and experienced by others, through me. This is scripture. Being salt and light of the world (Matthew 5:13-16). Making sure my words are seasoned with salt, so that people want to return (Colossians 4:6). Being in the world, but not of it (1 John 2:15-17).

    "You realize how great of an impact you've made, when your absence is felt. When your absence fills the hearts and minds of others, it's a presence in itself."

Here's my challenge to you. What kind of compliments have you received about 'your' character? Reflect on how they reflect God, today.

All the Love,

Shania M. ♡