The In-Between

 As Spring progresses, there is a gradual buildup of anticipation of Summer. Many of us look forward to what is ahead. However, there are struggles and difficulties in patience and waiting for what is to come. We all live in this tension – the anticipation of good things yet the need to be patient and wait. As you know, this tension can be exciting yet scary. We are excited about what we hope and think might happen, yet we also have apprehension because we do not know what will happen. So, how do we manage the in-between, the looking forward and practicing patience?

In his gospel account, Luke introduces two people who show us how to manage the in-between yet still look forward in great anticipation of great things ahead. Simeon was looking forward to Israel’s consolation (Luke 2:25). Anna was looking forward (like many of the Jews) to the redemption of Jerusalem (v.38). Both prophets were looking forward to the arrival of the promised Messiah (v.26). Notice how Scripture describes these two people – Simeon righteous and devout and the Holy Spirit was upon him (v.25). Anna was a woman committed to worship, fasting and prayer (v.37). The in-between for God’s people who should wait in anticipation of great things to come from our Lord (Romans 5:1-21; 12:12; 15:13) is staying connected to Him through the Holy Spirit (John 15:1-7; John 16:13). “The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him” (Lamentations 3:25, ESV).

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Reason

Over 20 years ago, I realized why I was born. No, I am not referring to my calling as a pastor, although it was during this same time frame. However, I did incorporate my self-worth and financial status into my work before this period. That worldly perspective was before I met Jesus. Although I grew up attending church, I didn’t know Him. I knew of God but didn’t know God. I did not know Jesus. When my wife and I found a church to attend consistently, we encountered the Living Word of God through hearing His word and applying His truths in our marriage, home, and church (Hebrews 4:12). This was the beginning of our understanding that words and actions matter. Especially in our faith – I have found this the most joyful and appealing thing about our relationship with the Lord. We can read the holy Scriptures and know that these words are trustworthy and that God follows through with His plans (Hebrews 10:23). This Sunday, our Children’s Ministry will conclude its series on the virtue of ...
Read more

Doubt

There are over 70,000 self-help books on the Amazon website, and over 6,000 manuscripts contend with the battle of doubt. Honestly, I thought both of those numbers would be larger. Nevertheless, much discussion exists about a struggle that can invade our minds and hearts. Doubt can hinder our relationships, jobs, and sometimes our faith. But, of course, it is beneficial to raise suspicion sometimes. For example, when we doubt a course of action that seems unwise, hopefully, it is a decision made after wise counsel and prayer (Proverbs 15:22; Philippians 4:6). Unfortunately, people (me included) have succumbed to doubt because it is an easier choice. A Spanish proverb argues, “Among the safe courses, the safest of all is to doubt.” No matter the reason, doubt could prevent us from experiencing a full life with God (Psalm 16:11; 2 Timothy 1:7). Moments before our Lord gave His  great commission  to His disciples, they came to Him in worship and praised their risen King. Then, as...
Read more

God's Love. God's Plan.

Back in August, we did a series in K-5 ministry about God's compassion for His people, beginning in the book of Genesis. The idea is to introduce the children to  God's big story – the journey of God's love through time and His involvement.  Explaining first that God's actions are out of love (1 John 4:16), and He always has a plan (Proverbs 19:21; Romans 8:28). These certainties inevitably are said no matter what Scripture we are discussing. Our desire as a family ministry is for both children and students to know our faithful, loving God and want to obey His commands out of the love they have for Him.   Starting this Sunday, we will explore the connection between Christmas and God's character, as shown through His big story. Soon we will celebrate the birth of Jesus, the ultimate example of God's faithfulness, His love, and the remarkable fulfillment of a plan to save His people (1 John 4:9-10). It began with a promise in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:15; 1 J...
Read more