Counterculture Presence

41 Every year His parents traveled to Jerusalem for the Passover Festival. 42 When He (Jesus) was 12 years old, they went up according to the custom of the festival. 43 After those days were over, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but His parents did not know it. 44 Assuming He was in the traveling party, they went a day’s journey. Then they began looking for Him among their relatives and friends. 45 When they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem to search for Him. 46 After three days, they found Him in the temple complex sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47 And all those who heard Him were astounded at His understanding and His answers. 48 When His parents saw Him, they were astonished, and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for You.” 49 “Why were you searching for Me?” He asked them. “Didn’t you know that I had to be in My Father’s house?” 50 But they did not understand what He said to them.” (Luke 2:41-50)

  • Jesus was listening and asking questions.
  • Listening validates people as valuable.

“But the Lord said to her, ‘My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.’” (Luke 10:41-42) [NLT]

“Why were you searching for Me?” He asked them. “Didn’t you know that I had to be in My Father’s house?” (Luke 2:49)

 To increase your influence of presence, you need to…

  • evaluate your why.

“Stop your fighting—and know that I am God …” (Psalm 46:10a)

“Be still, and know that I am God.” [NLT]

  • … identify your relational values.

Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12:31)

“Everything is permissible for me,” but not everything is helpful. “Everything is permissible for me,” but I will not be brought under the control of anything.” (1 Corinthians 6:12) 

  • power down often.

“Show family affection to one another with brotherly love. Outdo one another in showing honor.” (Romans 12:10)

  • install speed bumps. 

33 But a Samaritan on his journey came up to him, and when he saw the man, he had compassion. 34 He went over to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on olive oil and wine. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35 The next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, ‘Take care of him. When I come back I’ll reimburse you for whatever extra you spend.’” (Luke 10:33-35)

Presence clearly communicates: YOU MATTER TO ME!