18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. 19 For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope 21 that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. 23 And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. 24 For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. (Romans 8)
As seen in Job, waiting alone can often seem hopeless. But our expectation, our Hope in Christ is not lonely. We are waiting for the Good, for things to be made as they should be, together with the rest of creation, and especially with other believers who wait with us. Creation seems to have a better view than we do; it is watching on the wide screen, able to see us waiting. When we remember and realize that we are not alone, when we encourage each other, it helps the waiting seem bearable; we can have more hope; we can actually be patient. Stop looking through the keyhole. Step back, put your arms around other believers, and wait together.
No comments:
Post a Comment