12-4-11 Romans 15:4-13 Waiting patiently
“May the God who gives this patience and encouragement help you live in complete harmony with each other (5a).”
There was a hit song in the 70’s that said something like, “Signs, signs, everywhere signs. Blockin’ up the scenery, breakin’ my mind.” At this time of year it’s more like: Lines, lines, everywhere lines. Blockin’ up the freeway, makin’ me wait. I do plenty waiting, I’m just not sure I do it very patiently or in any kind of harmony.
I don’t think I’m alone in this. We want what we want when we want it and that is usually five minutes ago. We are an instant society. Long live the microwave! The popularity of social media, like twitter and facebook, has infected so much of what we do: say what you need to say in 140 characters or less. It’s all about my time and my need. We’re more impatient and ego-centric than a three year old on Christmas eve.
While some people seem more patient by nature, there are many more of us who struggle with never seeming to have enough. Even though I find myself in the second category quite often, I’m encouraged by this verse. If I find myself running short on patience, then I need to turn to God who gives patience.
Pot of Manna 