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(Ideally, this reflection should be read slowly and prayerfully, taking time to absorb the meaning of the words and to respond in quiet prayer. Reread it as often as you find helpful)
Waiting. Waiting. Waiting...
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Waiting. Waiting. Waiting.
At this time of year, waiting is in the air. Nature is waiting. Bulbs and seeds wait in the ground for their time to come. (If they are tricked by the weather into hurrying, there's trouble!) Trees wait. As the last leaves fall, next year's buds are revealed, but tiny. Biding their time. |
On the world scene there are those who know how to wait. Remember how we watched as Nelson Mandela strode out into freedom after 25 years in prison. An icon of hope for all those who wait.
In the North of Ireland, people who have waited long years for peace can summon the patience for the three steps forward, two steps back of the peace process. |
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Can I think of a time in my life when waiting was difficult, but well worthwhile in the end? Perhaps I was waiting for recovery, or for good news, or for a new baby? Take time to remember the feeling. |
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In the first reading for the first Sunday of Advent, Jeremiah encourages those who wait in hope:
'See the days are coming -it is the Lord who speaks -when I am going to fulfill the promise I made to the House of Israel and the House of Judah.' (Jer.33:14)
In the Gospel, Jesus tells us: 'Your liberation is at hand.' (Lk.21:28)
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Waiting can lead to hope, and hope to fulfillment. Looking forward is a great feeling -looking forward to a break, to meeting a friend, to spring.
Take a few moments to reflect on what you are looking forward to, no matter if it's only your next cup of tea!
Gracious God, we pray for those who wait.
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Someone is waiting in prison for the day of freedom.
Someone is waiting for the doorbell or phone to ring.
Someone is waiting for the results of hospital tests, or at the bedside of a sick loved one.
Someone is waiting for news of a missing family member.
So many people are waiting. Help those whose waiting is the hardest.
Give them the gift of hope.
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Espacio Tranquillo 
