Thursday, October 31, 2013

Patience

After having brought my daughter home from Vietnam, I assumed that I had conquered the "patience battle" or that patience became easier to access with age - Wrong!!  It is not easier or less frequent.  Nor do I get less frustrated with the stress it causes.  One thing I have perhaps learned: to expect struggles in life.  What sort of patience battles consume me at present?  When our kids get older, we deal with their waiting issues in addition to our own.  It is painful to watch our children struggle as they try to understand the consequences of living in a sinful world.  My 16 year old, a great soccer player, recently tore his ACL. This junior year is the year soccer players are recruited for college teams. He started so strong and one small move changed his hopes and dreams. His ACL was reconstructed, but now the rehab and recovery comprise his and my painful wait until he can once again play soccer. What do I do when I am impatient?  I fuss, I fume, I get angry, I try to inform myself which gives me a sense of control....Finally, after all of this, I lay my burden at the cross and ask Jesus to carry it with me. Jesus said:
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30, ESV)

Today I pray for my loved ones and for you, that you would give your burdens to Christ. He will give your rest for your soul.