Working In Absentia

Much has been written about the importance of a “ministry of presence” – of being with people in times of need. Important as presence is, there is also a “ministry of absence,” said noted spirituality author Henri Nouwen. We should never forget that it is the Holy Spirit ultimately Who brings healing and comfort to people, and that we need to trust God to do the work that only God can do in human hearts. There came a time when the risen Christ had to depart, but with assurances the Holy Spirit would be with us always. Sometimes your absence serves in a way that your presence can’t.