. . . for one brief moment

It was late on a Saturday afternoon and we were at the end of a virtual writer’s conference. But my Zoom wasn’t working! I could see and hear everyone else, but no one could see or hear me.

We were in the beginning of one of the final workshops. The workshop leader had just given her opening remarks, and posed a question. When no one answered, she re-phrased the question. Still, no one answered.

That’s when, for one brief moment, I saw panic fill her eyes. That’s when the realization hit . . . She thinks there’s no one here.

I could only see two others who were in attendance, and as I watched, each got up and left their desk. Probably for an appointment with an author or an editor. I must let her know I’m here! Quickly, I clicked my mouse on the Chat button and started typing . . .

I’m here! You can’t see me, or hear me, . . .

my zoom isn’t working!

Relief flooded her face. “Keep typing, Mary,” she said.

I did just that, and shortly, one of the other participants returned, followed a few minutes later by the other attendee. All was okay from that point on.

But . . . isn’t this how it is when we pray? When we talk to God? He can see us, and hear us, but we cannot see Him, or hear His voice.

And in those times that come to each of us—times when we desperately need God’s comfort, His healing, His strength—panic fills our hearts, our souls, our minds, if He seems far away, and we have no inclination that He hears our prayers and will answer. We must trust that He’s there, and that He’s listening.

We have His promise . . . God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV)

He’s there. He’s listening.

Grace and peace to you,

Mary Emma