James 5:7
Be patient, therefore, beloved, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious crop from the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains.
“I want it now!” “You deserve it now!” How many times have you heard those sentiments uttered? Our society tends to want things immediately, results instantaneously. Ads on TV and radio encourage and enflame us with the words, “You deserve (fill in the blank – house, car, clothing, toy, etc.) now. Why wait?” Technology brings us information ever faster. Ah, but “patience is a virtue” and “good things come to those who wait”; however, it is something not easily achieved in our modern, fast-paced life.
The farmer planting seed, watering, and picking it at maturity understands the importance of patience. The growth from seed to mature crop doesn’t happen overnight; and, picking an unripe crop only yields bitter, hard fruit. With patience, the succulent, delicious fruit awaits at the end of the growing season.
In spring, I delight in seeing the first shoots emerge in my garden - rebirth. I think it is the same during Lent, waiting for the Resurrection. It is also the same with waiting for the coming of the Lord. We are impatient to be relieved of the trials and tribulations of this world, knowing that the new life yet to come is glorious. With patience, however, we can each say, “I am ready, finally! – to wait.”
Lori Quinn
Visit http://www.allsaintspalatine.org for a full calendar and join us this weekend for the Fourth Sunday in Lent (remember to "spring ahead" with your clock Saturday night). Worship is at 8:30 and 11 and Education Hour is at 9:45.
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