“The Lord waits to be gracious to you, and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you. For the Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for him” (Isa. 30:18). “You, too, must be patient. Take courage, for the coming of the Lord is near.” (James 5:8). “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise…” (2 Pet. 3:9).
Heavenly Father, “waiting” is not my “strong suit,” but I’m glad it is yours. You wait to be gracious to us—not to frustrate us, teach us a lesson, or exact something from us. Stunning, amazing… thank you for not being slow, just tenaciously perfect in everything you do.
Why am I in such a hurry? Why the rush? Why my impatience, rigidity, and edginess? At just the right time, you sent Jesus—not a day early, and not a day late. It will be the same with Jesus’ second coming. It’s also true with regard to sending your Spirit into our present crises, heartaches, and struggles. You have promised to do all things well, not all things on our timetable.
I repent, Father. Early in this season of Advent, recalibrate my heart to beat at the pace of grace… to live at the speed of mercy… and to stay in the lanes of love.
Father, thank you for not being in a hurry. Thank you for not being slow about your promises. Thank you for being patient with my (our) impatience. I purpose to slow down, look up, listen expectantly, and abide in Jesus’ love. Oh, come let us adore Him, indeed. So Very Amen.
