long term waiting

Long term waiting is the wait in faith for God's answers and work in problems that we are experiencing. These are ongoing issues, such as health matters, or the fulfillment of vision we have received from God.

Long term waiting is transformative to us, if we do so in faith, persevering as those who hold on to God's promises, and trust his presence to sustain us. Often it's nearly anticlimactic when the answer finally comes. What was truly important, we can then see in hindsight, is the change this experience has had on ourselves.

Long term waiting is also helpful for us in community. We are united together in Christ, as those in the communion of the Triune God. We are made for each other, as well as for God. So this waiting helps bond us, as we truly weep with those who weep, and suffer together when one member suffers.

Scripture says that not all who had faith received God's promise, in their lifetimes. This can be true, even of ourselves. Therefore, it must not be about getting what we think God should give us, and when. But it must be about transformation as in Christian formation. And relationship which is at the heart of who we are and what we're all about.

In my own life I've waited and not received everything, and some of that pertains to what I perceive to be God's calling on my life. However, I can see that God's hand is there for good, in changing me and in helping me participate in the communion of his people, that is rooted in God's triune being.

Is God at work in your life in this way? Is there a sense of rest, yet also anticipation that keeps you on the edge, and exercising faith then, in your life? Or what?