On Wednesday I had the amazing experience of having a woman of high standing, one who is well regarded and respected in the academic world and the world of music, come over to where I was seated and ask to sit next to me.
She wanted to share her thoughts with me. She wanted to tell me about a song she had composed and how it came to her...a song my little choir had sung the Sunday before. As she spoke to me, she encouraged me and yes, commended me in my work.
The encounter was something I used to dream of, but never really thought could or would happen given my lack of training and expertise...especially compared to hers!
But she came over to me. She wanted to sit beside me. She want to converse with me.
"Is this seat taken?" she asked.
It was not. It was empty, and then she filled it.
As I reflected afterward on this incredible event, I suddenly realized Jesus asks the same of us...
Is this seat taken?
He wants to be near us - to talk to us - to share in our work and to encourage and commend us. He, who was there when the heavens came to be, humbles himself for our sake. His desire is to be where we are, to be our counselor, our confidant, our friend.
Is this seat taken?
Let Him come and sit beside you. If that seat is filled with pleasure or worries, tell them to move out of the way, and let the Lord take their place. Better yet, give him your own seat! His favorite spot is in the hearts of those He created. Let Him dwell there. Let His arms encircle you. Let His words encourage and instruct you. Let His peace bring you peace.
