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"Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides You, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Him" (Isaiah 64:4, NIV).
During this season of waiting and anticipation, I cannot help but think often of the words written by Dr. Seuss in a section of the book "Oh, the Places You'll Go!":
Waiting for a train to go, or a bus to come, or a plane to go, or the mail to come, or the rain to go, or the phone to ring, or the snow to snow, or waiting around for a Yes or No, or waiting for their hair to grow. Everyone is just waiting.
What is it that we are actually waiting for?
As followers of Christ, inevitably one of two things is guaranteed to occur in our time here on earth. Simply put, either we perish or Jesus will return. So, we must frequently ask ourselves, what are we doing in the waiting? Are our movements purposeful? Every day we are given the gift of time while eternity hangs in the balance. Multitasking and staying busy have become the norm. During the Advent season, it seems there are more things to do than usual. However, regardless of the day or time of year, we must be mindful of our waiting — contemplative and intentional. Growing in our knowledge, love, and faith in Jesus.
But what is it inside of us that so often despises the waiting? Is it as simple as the unknown, the uncertainty of the future that is frightening to our sensitive well-being? And is the future truly that unpredictable? Should not our feeble faith be more reliable? We have access to read all about how our story ends, or more appropriately, begins. This season of Advent is an opportunity to change the narrative — take captive the future thoughts that so often fuel our anxiety. Replace the uneasiness and lack of control with the calm confidence that victory is certain.
May we spend our time (and money) opening ears and hearts to the Word of God. The Book of Life is full of names that each of us has the calling to know. So many souls will cross our path this Advent season. Be kind and generous; be curious and listen.
For believers, whether we die tomorrow or our waiting ends with our Savior's final visit, eternal life is a win! Let us spend our time investing in others: family, friends, and temporal strangers. These are the treasures we shall store up in Heaven.
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