Waiting Patiently

Psalm 40:1, 16-17

I waited patiently for the LORD; he inclined to me and heard my cry...But may all who seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee. May those who love Your salvation say continually, "Great is the LORD". As for me, I am poor and needy; but the Lord takes thought for me. You are my help and my deliverer. Do not tarry, O my God.

When Pfizer announced the surprising effectiveness of its COVID-19 vaccine candidate, many experienced a rush of optimism. Other companies followed up with more good news. Pending FDA emergency approval, the first vaccinations may start this month. We hope the end of the pandemic is in sight. Our hope is well-founded as the vaccines move from concepts to documented trials.

This feeling of anticipation captures the Advent theme of Hope. Our hope goes beyond well-founded. It is anchored in the sure coming of Christ.

Now we are in that waiting time. The end of the pandemic is in sight, but the hospitals are struggling with a surge that may get worse as the impact of Thanksgiving gatherings unfolds. What will we do as we wait? A foreseeable better day can make forgoing risky activities now easier.

During Advent, Hope lifts our spirits even as the days get darker and colder. What will we do as we wait? Wayne Weissenbuehler and others said "Christians hear the music of the future and dance to it in the present." We don't cower at the prospect of a diminished institutional church. Instead, we proclaim God's love for the world, confident that God will continue to use the church. Our Hope that Jesus comes incarnate into time, encourages us to recognize God's presence even in our time.

Prayer: Lord, You are Hope for the world. Guide us to act on our Hope during this waiting time. In Your name we pray, Amen