God's Timing

            Something about the phrase “God’s timing” feels oddly oxymoronic, because, in fact, God is timeless.  History, clocks, or resources do not bind him. To the Creator of time, a day is like 1,000 years and 1,000 years, a day.  He is not rushed, panicked, or anxious…even when we feel we are. 

            Recently I have been repeatedly reminded that God’s timing is usually not mine.  In fact, it rarely is – not only does the actual date tend to differ, but so does the method of arriving at the “perfect date.”  Shay and I long to be in Rome, and this desire is valid and pleasing to the One who has called us.  However, our goals and timelines of departure continue to move further into the distant horizon. 

            This time of fundraising can sometimes feel like a desert.  We are weary, thirsty, and ready to arrive at our destination.  There are moments of watery oasis as we are encouraged and uplifted by conversations and generous gifts.  But, suddenly, the oasis vanishes and our end goal becomes a mirage.  Is this truly what we are called to?  Did we really hear the Lord?  Or are we just “seeing” things in our hunger and fatigue?  But, we are soon ushered into another oasis that fills us with moments of confirmation.  The haze vanishes and we again see the road ahead.

            I believe this time of desert wandering is strengthening, character-building, and preparing us for similar moments in our future home and ministry.  Though we long to rush through this tough time to greener pastures, we are becoming more and more aware that God has us here for very specific reasons.  We hope and pray that God’s grace surrounds us, that the Holy Spirit gives us discernment, and that we daily surrender to the Lord’s timing. 

            So, here we are, certain of God’s call and confident in His perfect timing.  As we wait on the Lord we will continue to work toward the ultimate goal of bringing the Kingdom to Rome.  But, we will also continue to surrender to His perfect timing, whatever that looks like.

            Are there any areas of your life where you have needed to surrender to the Lord’s timing?  Are you currently waiting in or walking through a desert?  How do you handle these times?  We would love to hear your stories.

He is peace, comfort, love, and all hope.   May you be surrounded by these beautiful characteristics of the Lord this week.