“Wherever you are, be fully there.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – February 19, 2026
But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:41-42, ESV
We live in the age of infinite information, which means a constant temptation toward endless distraction. I see it in those around me, but I see it most frequently in myself. I’ll be in a conversation, and even when I find the topic interesting and important, my mind struggles to be fully present to the person in front of me. All it takes is a buzz of the watch or beep of the phone, and I’m gone. “I wonder who that is?” “He said what?!” “Why are they calling me?”
One of the greatest signs of respect that you can give to anyone is to give them the gift of your presence. Simply put, wherever you are, be fully there. And conversely, before you even realize what’s happened, your inattentiveness can wound someone you love, telling them through your actions that they are only worthy of a portion of your time or part of your presence.
Though there are certainly unexpected emergencies that demand an urgent response, the vast majority of the time, it can wait. The email will be there, patiently waiting for you. The news headline doesn’t demand you see it that instant. Your home won’t fall down if you don’t become a YouTube expert on this or that repair right now.
Yet there are unique and wonderful image bearers of God that we are blessed to interact with on a daily basis. From a spouse or child to the grocery store employee or 9-5 cubicle neighbor, there are countless moments and situations in which we encounter people who offer themselves to us in love and compassion, tenderness and joy. Do not take that gift for granted, and instead show your gratitude by offering back the most precious gift you have to offer anyone: the gift of yourself.
Prayer
Father, remind us afresh that every single person is precious in your sight, and worthy of our time and attention, learning to see them as you see them, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Application
Consider intentional times of the day in which you are unreachable and unplugged, helping you learn to be present to the people in your life in meaningful and redemptive ways.
Related Reading
Psalm 90:12; Ephesians 5:15-16; James 1:19
Worship Resource
Taylor Leonhardt and Molly Parden: Sing Over Me
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