Be Patient: All will be Well
Today’s Readings: AM Psalm 25; Isa. 5:8-12,18-23; 1 Thess. 5:1-11; Luke 21:20-28
Every so often God does this amazing thing – God shakes me, and I hear in a strong loud voice, “Wake Up!” It happens when I least expect it but seemingly when I most need it. This morning was one of those times. I was catching up on my email and if I’m honest feeling sorry for myself. I’ve had a cold, my house is a wreck and then I read John’s Reflection from Wednesday, Dec. 4th. His message reminded me of how important it is to be intentional. Not just in our faith practices but in all aspects of our lives. Being intentional to thank those we care about for loving us, being intentional to thank the mail carrier, your favorite barista, because of course everyone should be on a first name basis with their barista! Being intentional to notice when we are short with someone or when we need to slow down and pay attention to where God is showing up in our lives. And not just at this time of the year but all year long. We seem to think that as we enter Advent our expressions of thanks or love should be wrapped in red ribbons and left under the tree or on someone’s doorstep, when in actuality, we could simply take time all year long to be intentionally gracious and patient, kind and present to those around us.
Our readings for today are foreboding. That’s what Apocalyptic literature can be like. However, they never leave us without a reminder that there is a light in the darkness, that hope travels through the murkiest and darkest of days and nights in our lives. The death of a child, a broken relationship, the grief that comes this time of the year - just because it can; all these things can undermine our patience with God and our hope in the ultimate coming of Christ. They can suck all the air out of our lungs and feel as though their weight will crush us. However, if we can cast our eyes on the light in the distance, on the Christ child that will come bearing a light that can never be extinguished, and with a deep abiding gratitude, we just might find a sense of peace in the midst of the chaos our culture encourages.
The image of “the Son of Man coming in a cloud,” may seem frightening but never forget this is someone we know and know loves us. That is the one thing for which we can always be grateful. Gratitude in the midst of pain, exhaustion or intense grief may seem impossible but in those moments gratitude can have the power of transforming even the darkest of nights.
So, as you look at the endless list of things that need to be done, and stare into the taillights of 100s of cars who seem to be purposely preventing you from getting to your destination, try to think of just one person, one event, one moment in your life that you love, for which you’re grateful. Then remind yourself to be patient, that eventually, in God’s time, “all will be well.”
Faithfully,
Sally+
Reflection and Challenge: Being grateful and telling someone are two different things. Challenge yourself to begin each day with a list of people and things in your life for which you are going to acknowledge your gratitude. And then every day thereafter, at the end of the day say thanks for those people, those moments.