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.
