As a small child, I thought I would die before Christmas day would get here.  Anyone who knows me well, knows that patience is not one of my strengths. However, during this season of Advent, we are not just talking about any “waiting” – like waiting in a grocery store line, wishing for a new IPhone, or waiting in the pick-up line for your child at school– We are waiting for the “Revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ.”  This waiting that we are doing – is most difficult because I don’t think we truly understand what we are waiting for or how it impacts our lives today.

I was with my dad as he passed away on a Sunday morning.  The bright sun was streaming in the window, so I got up to close the blinds.  As I looked back at my dad while closing the blinds, I swear I saw the angels of the Lord coming for him.  My legs began to literally shake as I knew in my heart what was happening.  But, what I saw was a glimpse of heaven that early morning.  It was an experience I will never forget.  I believe that is how God works.  God gives us small opportunities to experience His kingdom in profound ways that leave us hungry for more.  Those small amazing glimpses of God’s Kingdom strengthen us to keep going in doing God’s work.

In 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, St. Paul tells the parishioners of the church, “You are called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord – You are not lacking in any spiritual gift as you WAIT for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ…He will also strengthen you to the end.”  This is truly powerful and profound words as we enter into this season of Advent.  I believe that in our waiting and doing the Lord’s work in the meantime, God will strengthen us by giving us those tiny glimpses into our eternal life!

From what I have seen and experienced, it is an opportunity of a lifetime in doing the Lord’s work and our eternal life is definitely worth the wait!