God demonstrates the importance of presence by being our ever-present help in times of trouble. Read Psalm 46:7. The Psalmist painted a frightening picture. Even though the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the sea, I will not be afraid. There have been a few experiences in my life where the earth gave way. My faith was shaken. The future was filled with uncertainty. My stomach was in knots. My motivation to be productive was gone because it didn’t feel like anything I did was going to matter to the universe. Yet the Psalmist wrote, “I will not be afraid.” Why, because God was near. James wrote, “Draw near to God, and God will draw near to you.” (James 4:8) The Psalmist continues by giving us the words, “The LORD Almighty is always with us.” This truth helps us to define the kind of Christ follower we are to become. As God is present with us, we are to be present with one another. We are to be an ever-present help to other sin their time of trouble. We are to worship together, serve together, pray together, and carry out the mission of making disciples together. We emphasize this concept with our membership vows. “I will be loyal to my church and uphold her with my presence.” Showing up matters. Being there for one another matters. Even if the earth gives way, we are to be there for each other. One other thing, if you need someone to be with you when your world is falling apart, please reach out. You are loved. You have people who will walk with you, be present with you, and encourage you in your faith.