When I was a child waiting for Christmas was exciting and frustrating. I wanted it to come now, but also learned the joy of anticipation. Waiting for vacations, birth of a new baby or birthdays is a bit easier now, for I know that all I have to do is let the days go by and enjoy the wait! I think this type of waiting as the the “eager waiter”. But there are others.
Then we have the frustrated waiter. This type of “waiter” is the pacer, the “I wonder what is taking so long type of waiter”. I once literally spent thirty minutes in a drive thru lane. I timed it! I felt bad for the staff. Not sure what was the problem, but I chose to be patient. Not everyone was that understanding. Fortunately I was not on a schedule. Then we have the distracted waiter–one who fills up his mind and body with busyness to help him avoid the big issue at hand. Sometimes these folks can get very productive during these waiting times. This type of waiting is usually more short term.
Another type of waiting is waiting for the “unknown” to happen. Did I get the job? Did I get the promotion I tested for months ago? Have I been accepted to the college program I applied for? What are the biopsy results?
During this waiting time, I have employed the steps Philippians 4:6-7 instructs. Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. It helps me capture the worse case scenario thoughts. How about this season of Covid? Are you waiting for the “all clear” for when life can resume–fully open and free?
I know I am. I think I have been a patient waiter for most of this season. However, there is another BIG event scripture tells us to look for, anticipate and long for. That is the second coming of the Lord. As a child I would look up at an amazing cloud display and wonder, is this the day? Of course many days and years have passed and we are still waiting. But as the days and difficulties are growing, so is my longing for His return. It is our hope as believers, that no matter what our current situation is, Jesus is coming again. I Corinthians 4:17 reminds us: for our light and momentary affliction, which is but for a moment is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. We have eternity to look forward to and we must not let Satan rob us of that amazing truth. Life here on earth is fleeting. So while we are waiting let’s do the work of the ministry that He has called us. Let us be busy about our Father’s business and occupy till He comes. Let’s be grateful sons and daughters who spread the light of His love and truth. Maranatha. Come Lord Jesus Come. Let’s be active waiters!
Father, I thank you for your promised hope of your coming again. I thank you that in that promise you also come into our everyday situations and bring your help and hope. I pray for my friends who need this hope re-kindled in their difficult times. I trust your timing, my Lord.
Faith Encounters 