Waiting for the Light
Guest writer: Susan Mayes
“So you, by the help of your God, return, hold fast to love and justice, and wait continually for your God.”— Hosea 12:6
As an early morning riser, I begin my day waiting. A perfect time to “Be still and know that I am God.” Viewing neighbors’ lights illuminate their windows, one by one, in various apartments, makes me feel a sense of community. We will all be waiting today, as a large winter storm is predicted to bring chilling air, winds, snow, and ice to our landscape. As one might imagine, along with waiting and watching comes anticipation and preparation.
Our university has already called for early dismissal, so students, faculty, and staff will not be in danger if the weather event happens as anticipated. My own living village has plans for staff to stay overnight to accommodate the needs of residents with special needs, keep driveways and sidewalks clear, and deliver meals as needed. A local performing arts venue has moved its show time to an earlier hour to ensure attendee safety. My church still plans to hold services on Sunday morning, but we have been advised to monitor for the latest updates.
The shelves at the local grocery were getting bare as I visited yesterday. In fact, I can’t remember seeing that many people in that market in years! All this busyness in anticipation of “the event!” So, it begins… the waiting, the preparation is a dynamic moving process, but for now, we are as ready as possible.
The above “anticipatory set” is an analogy to our work as Christians. We hear the news of our Savior; we read, study, and listen to the history of God’s people, as well as the stories of Jesus’ love and healing. We pay attention to other interpretations of theology; we pray in our discernment… we are preparing. As the season of Lent quickly approaches, let us be mindful to take time to enter our “personal desert” and contemplate making ready for Christ’s resurrection and, ultimately, His coming again.
I just saw the first light brighten a neighbor's window! Be prepared, and let us wait in love for His lantern and the light that will bring an abundance of Christ’s brilliance.
Susan Mayes
Joanna joannaseibert.org