Monday, December 19, 2016

by Leah Humphries

James 5:7-10
Be patient, therefore, beloved, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious crop from the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains. You also must be patient. Strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near. Beloved, do not grumble against one another, so that you may not be judged. See, the Judge is standing at the doors! As an example of suffering and patience, beloved, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.

In our culture of instant gratification, patience seems ever hard to come by. We are used to getting what we want, when we want it. Often we live our lives in chaos, chasing the next thing on the to-do list. James tells us to ‘Be patient, then brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming.’ What a beautiful reminder, especially in the busyness of the season, to slow down and trust that God is in control. To support and love one another and know that our hardships will come to an end. For our family, this message is especially timely. It reminds us that we are not alone, we must have patience and trust in our God and to believe in the magic of Christmas.

Grant us patience, Lord, as we as we wait for you. Come into the mess of our lives. Meet us where we are whether it be deep in the valley or high on the mountaintop. Grant us eyes to see your image in everyone we meet. Grant us listening ears to hear the stories of your children who are in pain. May we be slow to speak and eager to listen. May we use our words to heal and not to hurt. May we keep our eyes open to see your majesty and wonder. Grant us patience, Lord, as we wait for you. Amen.