For as long as I’ve been a pastor, I’ve noticed God’s presence is one of the most talked-about ideas but, I think, misunderstood as well. In my observation, it’s because we define God’s presence by the goosebumps we can, at times, feel. While we all love that sensory confirmation of God’s presence, that is only the tip of the iceberg.

My wife got up early and braved the cold, the rain and the long lines at the grocery story this morning. And she was victorious!! She came back with the oh so coveted toilet paper. And as our bounty of paper products and cleaning supplies were laid out on our counter — and we cheered with great celebration — it occurred to me that this season of scarcity has brought us a great opportunity. We didn’t know we needed it, but it may be one of the best things that could happen to us.