Waiting Well

A physician waiting more than two hours in a doctor's waiting room - poetic justice, some would say. For me, the result was annoyance followed by agitation and then anger. I am not inclined to wait well. Just think of the praying and meditating, the listening to and talking with God that I missed by choosing to brood in frustration.

Waiting is a part of life. Understanding its inevitability and finding its value would go a long way toward reducing my anxiety. While living in Europe, waiting for public transportation taught me that this seemingly empty time might have purpose.

Jesus teaches about waiting when telling us to be ready for His second coming.

"Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning like men waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet. . . "                (Luke 12:35-36 NIV)

He suggested a "good waiter" should have these distinct characteristics:

• Preparation (readiness) - "be dressed and ready"
• Expectation (hopefulness) - "like men waiting for their master"
• Maintenance (faithfulness) - "keep your lamps burning"

Waiting can become an opportunity for quiet productivity. This is a tough lesson for me to learn. Will you join me?

Sharing the journey with you,