Why Presence Matters More Than Perfection

I struggle with the desire for perfection. I have found myself standing outside the ICU or at the bedside of someone receiving end-of-life care, wishing I could find the right words to say, only in those crucial moments to have my mind go blank.

In the midst of that panic, questioning why God would choose someone like me to be there, I have discovered freedom in letting go of the need for perfection and trusting in my perfect Lord and Savior, who goes ahead of me and walks with me.

When we show up authentically—without pretense or performance—we model the love of Christ. It’s not about filling silence with answers; it’s about walking alongside others, just as Jesus did.

People remember how we made them feel, rather than the exact words we said. Jesus didn’t rush around delivering polished sermons to His grieving friends. Instead, He wept at the tombs, broke bread with those who doubted, and sat beside those who were suffering.

We don’t need to offer perfection; we only need to be willing to show up—imperfect and open, to share Christ's love, to discover the amazing things God can achieve when all we have to offer is a blank slate.