E-votional - It's A . . .
April 24, 2002
Verse:

"For in hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what is seen? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience."

Romans 8:24 (NRSV)

Thought:

   Nervousness is definitely there. You stand off to the side with the preacher. There is music in the background and you have not seen your wife to be since last night. Pachebell in the background tells me the family is being seated. Purcell's Demark March indicates the bridesmaids are coming down. And as I hear Wagner's Bridal chorus, my heart beats faster, Amy comes through the doors. Waiting. There is much in life which we wait for. Especially knowing that God has a plan for us, we wait, we watch and do our best to be ready to respond to the thing we are called to do and be. Waiting also comes to us in our anticipation of those things which we know are right there in front of us. I finally know what we are having, the wait of whether or not it is a boy or a girl is over.

   Hear the Good News, having a relationship with Christ ends much of the waiting in our life. Waiting for what we know and don't know, both bring anxiety. When we know what we are waiting for it is much more manageable, but when we are waiting for something we do not know, only sense, all we feel is uneasy and lost. Knowing the wait is coming to an end brings relief, while not knowing will drive you every which way except calm. If you find yourself anxious about what is before you in life, turn to Christ, let him be the bride or groom of your life and listen for the music around you. As for me, and my waiting for word of whether or not I am having a boy or a girl, it looks like Casey is going to have a little brother!

Prayer: 

   Gracious God, anticipation is good when I know what to expect, but much of life is unexpected. Let my experience and knowledge of Christ be an anchor of reassurance instead of a wind tossed leaf of doubt. Give me the patience to face each day with confidence and calm, that I might be able to hear from You what it is that You want from me today. Thank You for all that You have done in my life and all You will continue to do, for ask this through Christ, my Lord and Savior. Amen.