Brother Lawrence, Kitchen Duties and the practice of the Presence of God

[This post I dedicates to UiTM’s degree students who being very helpful to FES Sarawak during Leadership Training Seminar for doing the glorious-important kitchen duties to on-stage performance! Crazy! You inspired me and the team to serve more humbly – thank you]

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Brother Lawrence, a cook in the seventeenth-century French monastery, gave the world a phrase that well describes deep friendship with Jesus: the practice of the presence of God. As this humble monk washed dishes and served food to his brothers, he communed with God, and the glow of God’s presence gave him menial kitchen duties richness and significance. He writes,

"It is not necessary for being with God to be always at church. We may make an oratory of our heart wherein to retire from time to time to converse with Him in meekness, humility, and love. Everyone is capable of such familiar conversation with God, some more, some less. He knows what we can do."

Living in God’s presence; the practice of the presence of God is a wonderful experience! When you practice being aware of God’s presence, your senses are activated to pick up His signals all through the day. At work, at home, at playground, in your car, in your room, while washing dishes, while gardening, while playing futsal or wherever you are, (in my case, also, while in the washroom) you can freely begin to dialogue with the Lord. You share your heart with Him, and you know He’s listening. It has nothing to do with being in the church building or on your knees. I mean, that’s not the only time to communion with God – anywhere, everywhere, whenever is available to practice the presence of God. God is omnipresent, meaning; He is everywhere at all times. Our God, the God of the Bible, who own the universe and Creator of All is in and around you – “Christ in you, the hope of glory" (Colossians 1:27). Sir, ma’am, brothers, sisters, young kids – practice the presence of God in whatever you do. Yes, even while doing kitchen duties!

God in the Book of Jeremiah said, “When you pray, I will listen.
If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me” (29:12-13NLT)

THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP.