Is it possible that, to really know God’s presence among us, we must be able to get into the present?

It’s mentioned a lot, especially in sports. Getting into the present is referred to as “flow” or “the Zone”.

I believe there is also a God Zone, meaning that we can get into the place/state where God is present and becomes real. I don’t have all the answers today, but here are some things to practice to help you get present in the moment and open your awareness of God at the same time.

1. I was at a minor league baseball game recently and at the end of the game there was a great fireworks show. Being present in the moment is avoiding counting down the outs until the game ends so that you can see the fireworks. It is going without asking yourself “is this the grand finale?” and saying “I bet this is it”. Instead, praise God and wonder at the fireworks that will go off upon Jesus’ return.
2. Go on a road trip and do not think about “making good time”, or “how much time to the destination?”, or “how many miles to go?”, or “how much traffic will there be?”.  Instead be like the GPS that knows the whole route but only focuses on the current location until the next turn. Enjoy the journey, praise God, and wonder at which turn will be the last before Jesus’ return.
3. Be 100% there for your spouse and children. Do not get anxious to be somewhere else. Just notice them. Try to notice them like God does. Praise God for them. And think about the family reunion when Jesus returns.
4. Don’t jump ahead in your mind during church. Fully wonder and enjoy each part of the service. Praise God throughout the celebration and wonder at the celebration that will occur upon Jesus’ return.
5. Next time you are at the doctor’s office, do not be anxious in the waiting room. Don’t stress about the diagnosis. Instead, let God comfort you and be your refuge. Praise God for his ability to heal and wonder at your perfect health you’ll have when Jesus returns.
6. Plan your spending and be responsible with the money you receive from God. Don’t go into debt because of compulsive spending and impatience. Instead, follow a budget, give generously to God, and trust in God’s resources to sustain you and allow you to prosper.
7. Don’t stare at the clock at your job, just collecting a paycheck. Notice and be present with your co-workers and customers. Think about wowing God by your work. Wonder at God’s work and know that your job will be perfect upon Jesus’ return.
8. Next time you are waiting in an airport and your plane is delayed do not despair. Persevere by wondering at Jesus’ perseverance on the cross and wonder at the glorious resurrection that followed.
9. Don’t fret about the terrible news you hear. Like epidemic and disease or terrorism. You cannot go through life afraid and see God’s presence. Hardships will occur.
   16:33 These things have I spoken unto you, that in me ye may have peace. In the world ye have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

   John 16:33
   Wonder at the thought that Jesus has overcome the world and that there will be no tears and worries in heaven.
10. Don’t let the weather forecast have any impact on your state of mind. Instead, focus on the forecast that has eternal implications and can change your life. Namely, Jesus loves you, died on the cross for you, was resurrected from the dead, and went up to heaven, sending believers the Holy Spirit.

In other words, be present in the moment by casting aside anxiety, impatience, stress, fear, and irresponsibility. And when these things are cast aside and overcome, God will fill the void with his presence.