July 26 – The Practice of Presence

Gregg’s Reflection

The practice of presence has become a cornerstone of my spiritual journey. I remember one morning walking through the aspens near our home, when I realized how often my thoughts had pulled me away—from the rustle of the leaves, the coolness of the air, even from God’s nearness. As I slowed down, opened my senses, and let go of my mental chatter, I found myself resting in God’s presence, aware that the ground beneath my feet and the breath in my lungs were both gifts of grace.

Living in presence is not about perfect focus; it’s about continual returning. I drift into worry, plans, and distractions, but each time I notice and return to the moment, I discover God waiting for me. This rhythm of losing and returning is itself a practice, teaching me patience with my own humanity and tenderness with others.

More and more, I see that presence is not only for prayer or silence—it extends into conversations, work, meals, even chores. Washing dishes or driving into town can become places of communion when I pay attention. In practicing presence, I learn that God is not only found in sacred spaces but in the ordinary, shimmering moments of each day.

Scripture

Be still, and know that I am God.

Psalm 46:10

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Psalm 118:24

Ancient Quotes

Abide in the present moment, and you will discover God there.

Ephrem the Syrian, Hymns on Faith. Ephrem believed that truth is often better experienced than explained.

The practice of the presence of God is the simplest and holiest way of life. We can do little things for God: I turn the cake that is frying on the pan for love of him… it is enough for me to pick up but a straw from the ground for the love of God.

Brother Lawrence, The Practice of the Presence of God

My only prayer practice is attention. When I forget God, I soon feel my misery—and that is how I remember to return. The Divine Presence is always here, in this moment; when I awaken to it, I am filled with joy. If you are not aware of this, become so.

Brother Lawrence, Ellyn Sanna, A Christian Zen Master

Modern Quotes

Contemplative awareness is learning to see what is right in front of us, to enter fully into the moment, and there discover the divine presence that has always been.

Richard Rohr, Everything Belongs, p. 57

Journaling Prompts

• Recall a recent moment when you became aware of God’s presence. What helped you notice?
  
  
• What practices help you return to the present when your mind drifts into the past or future?
  
  
• How might ordinary routines—walking, cooking, working—become doorways into God’s presence?
  
  
• What does it mean to you to “be still and know” God in your daily life?

👉 Go deeper into this week’s theme:
Read the full Week 30 Reflection: Pathways to God