Bill Cutrer was a medical doctor turned pastor turned seminary professor. That’s where I met him and formed a profound appreciation for his ministry. He taught Crisis Counseling at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and I was blessed by God to have him as a professor.
The class focused on the unfortunate reality that people in your life and ministry will experience times of crisis and that you — as a minister of the gospel — will be called on to minister to them during those times.
A crisis could include divorce, sexual abuse in a home, sudden unexpected death, a cheating spouse and much more. There seems to be no end to the list of terrible things that can happen to people in our fallen world.
Dr. Cutrer’s go-to verse was Romans 12:15 which reads, “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” From that verse, and other portions of Scripture, Dr. Cutrer taught us about the ministry of presence — being present with people when they face the most difficult days of their life.
How can we live out the ministry of presence in the lives of those we serve or those we serve alongside? Here are five ways:
1. We can show up. I remember years ago seeing a group of Christian men gathered on a sidewalk outside a home during the early hours of the morning. While I am not certain of the reason for their gathering, I assessed it was likely they were going to comfort a brother in a hard time. Sometimes we do not need to say anything, we just need to show up. Job’s friends did this and so can we.
2. We can call. A friend of mine who has experienced great tragedy in his life shared that oftentimes people do not know what to say — but the worst part is when they don’t say anything at all. I have been in that situation of not knowing what to say more times than I can count, but I still must pick up the phone and call. Recently I just prayed to God and said, ‘Lord, I really don’t know what to say,’ but felt compelled to make the call to a brother going through one of the worst days of his life. I know he appreciated the call.
3. We can text. We live in a texting world. Many would rather receive a text than a phone call. For many smartphone users, their most unused app is the phone app. Many people do not like to talk on the phone and are much more comfortable expressing their care by texting a friend or loved one. A text conversation may move to a phone call or a personal visit, but it can be a great way to let someone know that you are thinking about them.
4. We can take food. Depending on the situation, it can still be incredibly meaningful when food is sent to a home. Whether we prepare the meal ourselves or order something to be delivered, providing a meal in a time of crisis can be thoughtful and helpful. If you prepare the meal yourself, then be sure and deliver it in a dish that doesn’t need to be returned. This one simple act will make it easier for those who are facing a hard time.
5. We can pray and let the family know we are praying. One of the greatest things we can do when others are facing the worst day of their life is to come to the throne of grace on their behalf. We can pray for them. I recently joined with hundreds, possibly thousands, of Kentuckians praying earnestly over an urgent need for a family in our state. We prayed and our prayers were urgent. God ministered in such an incredible way. That family will never forget their awful experience, nor will they forget those who prayed for them in their time of greatest need.
As I write these words, I am not remembering the times I faithfully exercised the ministry of presence. I am instead recalling those times when I failed to reach out to someone during a time of need. I regret those times and I hope to do better. I am, however, incredibly grateful for the legacy of Dr. Bill Cutrer and his instruction on the ministry of presence. It has indelibly marked my own life and ministry.
Dr. Todd Gray 