Tuesday, December 6
Isaiah 14:1-23 and 2 Peter 3:1-18
Patience is a virtue and a gift. While we all know that it is of good character to wait calmly for what God has in store for us, it can still be quite difficult to practice this desirable trait.
Paul told us that there are essential ‘fruits’ Christians cultivate in their hearts that show the work of the Holy Spirit. One of the nine ‘fruits’ Paul mentions is patience. We are called to live a life that we can endure with patience. How can we practice patience with the slow driver ahead of us, the lab result on which we are waiting, or the resolution in a broken relationship we so desperately wish to see? How do we practice patience in our faith?
In our lives as Christians, we face many trials and tribulations. Within each, it is important that we turn to God and pray for strength and endurance. God indeed answers every prayer but rarely in alignment with our timing or will. Again, we have opportunity to practice patience.
In today’s reading, Peter reminds readers that …with the Lord, one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance (II Peter 3:8-9).
The Lord’s love and faithfulness is constant. He will provide grace and mercy to all His children and protect us for He knows what is best for us. The Lord will fulfill His promises at the right time and show us His control when we need it, just as when the Lord delivered the Israelites out of Babylon from their years of slavery. They were patient with the Lord and knew He would protect them and save them in their suffering.
In this Advent season, we too must be patient with the Lord. Let us praise God for the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ, and not show angst. While waiting for Christ’s second coming or for our prayers to be answered, embrace patience, and in doing so, may you always feel His constant love and mercy.
ABIGAIL BECKER
CUW Student
About this series
“Advent Anticipation: the arrival of our Savior” is a sampling of biblical meditations composed by members of the CUWAA community. It is our prayer that you will take time during the Advent season to read and reflect upon God’s Word and await the coming of Jesus with newfound enthusiasm and anticipation through the Holy Spirit.