01-26-25

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
January 26, 2025
When meeting with couples in advance of their weddings, I have often spoken of the Apostle Paul’s words on love found in 1st Corinthians 13. Paul begins by putting the words patience and kindness with love, in part, because when trying to explain or talk about love, we most often talk about it in the specific ways we express love. And as I have been known to say, “Patience is who you are and kindness is what you do,” yet we all know that most of us can work on these two expressions of love… and there are other ways beyond those two. 

It’s quite common for one or both of the individuals seeking marriage to crack a joke about their lack of patience. Someone might say, “Patience is something I have been wanting for, and I’m beginning to lose my patience.” But what exactly is patience? Some people define it as the coping mechanism they use when unexpected circumstances cause them to wait. However, I believe it’s more complex than that. 

This is what we will be discussing in worship today—the belief that patience is more than just waiting without grumbling. Contrary to popular belief, patience is not a passive virtue, implying a lack of control in situations. While it’s true that we often lack control or power in certain circumstances, patience prompts us to reflect on what productive things we can do during those moments. When we are waiting, and the situation leaves us feeling sort of powerless, finding even just a hint of purpose can be empowering. I took my computer to the courthouse when I had jury duty, and I was able to do a lot of writing as I sat there. Being able to see that I accomplished a few things helped give meaning to the waiting.

As I pray for patience, O God who I believe transcends time yet has chosen to exist within time, my heart also seeks purpose alongside the patience. As I watch the clock on the wall telling me how many minutes pass, I seek to know moments where the fullness of time touches my soul and points me in the direction of your sacred purpose. Amen.