Tuesday, April 2, 2019

Patience in Prayer

We often get impatient when our prayers are not answered instantly, or even in a few days.  Can we imagine what the man who suffered by the pool of Bethsaida for 38 years, awaiting a helping hand to place him in the pool, felt?  Frustration, anger, and jealousy must have accompanied his impatience.  Ready, then was he, when Jesus reached out and asked him if he wanted to be well. (cf. Jn 5:6). The man did not even have to ask...Jesus saw him and took care of him.
Not that we should become totally passive, but prayer means realizing that God knows our needs, appreciates our prayers (perhaps he only ever hears from us when we NEED something), and will answer them when he determines what is the best time and the best way.  Not always our time and our way, but in the end, truly the best.  Do we have to wait 38 years?  Most likely not, but certainly more than a few days, but at the same time, often sooner than later.  Praying in faith with a receptive, patience keeps the door open for when Jesus wants to enter.
Bro. Rene

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