Many gifts that modern Christians readily accept as spiritual gifts are not mentioned in the Bible as gifts, for example, playing a musical instrument, singing, liturgical dancing and use of technology, just to name a few. The basic definition of spiritual gifts is the supernatural ability of a believer to be a special blessing to the body of Christ. Since it is generally accepted that the gifts mentioned in the bible are not finite, I would like you to consider an unnamed spiritual gift: the gift of presence. This is my definition of that gift:
It is the special God given ability that some believers have to reflect, emit, and radiate the Holy Spirit’s presence particularly during worship experiences. Believers with this gift are conduits for the movement of the Holy Spirit who emit a special energy into the environment. The worship experience is energized and anointed by their presence. Persons with this gift also function similarly in the world at large taking God’s presence into the home, workplace, community and the kingdom of God. They are a positive influence without really trying. People notice when they are not present because their presence matters.
Those with the gift of presence have an insatiable need to be present, no matter what the occasion. They are passionate about church and joyfully go often and stay long hours without feeling unduly tired. Although they generally possess a recognizable physical presence, they are not usually demonstrative in the service and do not draw attention to themselves in any way. They are rejuvenated by the worship experience, and carry that joy into the world. The scripture, “You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14) comes to mind. Usually hurting people are drawn to them like moths to a porch light. People with the dominant gift of presence often also have the subordinate gifts of encourager and intercessor.
Believers with this gift are like impact players in sports. Impact players are good strong players but not stars. When they are in the game everyone seems to perform better because they motivate and inspire others to be their best. When this trait is present in believers they cause the anointing oil to be ignited in others, particularly those in visible frontline activities of the church. Presence in the natural realm means, “I am here”. In the spirit realm it means, “He (the Holy Spirit) is here.”
I have observed people who I think have the unnamed gift of presence. They are not necessarily people who hold offices or do highly visible tasks in the church; primarily they are lay people who just show up. The odd thing about them is they seem driven to show up just as the preacher is driven to preach. Now the connection is made-what good is a sermon if there is no one present to hear?
Remember, biblically naming is important, so now that I have given a name to this gift, do you recognize yourself in it? Do you automatically think of people who fit this description? Think about it, and I am confident that several names will pop in your mind. People with this gift are usually unaware of how they impact others and must be told that they have “the gift of presence.”
Matthew 5:14 and 16 say it like this, “You’re here to be light.…keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God…” MSG