I’ve been reading a little book for my devotions with the title “Jesus Calling.”  The book is by Sarah Young and she writes each devotional as if Jesus is speaking.  The devotionals are very short and I read about six each day, so it won’t take me long to finish the year.  But the notion of starting my day out with Jesus speaking to me is a joy.  Being reminded of the presence of Jesus every morning is a present to me.

Many of the devotionals talk about experiencing the presence of Jesus.  Here are a few of the things I wrote in my journal after reading a devotional.  “Practice the presence of God or you will practice the presence of problems.”  We can either focus on God or we can focus on the troubles of this world.  Focusing on trouble means that we get anxious, angry, and stressed.  Focusing on God means that we find peace and are reminded constantly of his love.  I want to focus on the presence of God.

Here is another thought.  “Calling my name opens your heart to my presence.”  Do you ever feel like Jesus is absent from you?  Sarah Young suggests that just saying his name makes you feel like he is present.  How wonderful that just breathing “Jesus” helps put things back in perspective when I am anxious.  It reminds me of the song, “Just Call My Name (I’ll Be There)” recorded by the Jackson 5.  Imagine God singing this song to you.

You and I must make a pact
We must bring salvation back,
Where there is love, I’ll be there. (I’ll be there)