Three Thoughts on Waiting for a Repurposed Life
December 16th, 2024
It seems I often find myself here. Waiting in Advent. Waiting for the next stage of repurposing.
This year is no exception.
Ironically, this four-week Advent season leading up to Christmas also symbolizes a time of waiting in the Christian faith. Waiting for the birth of Jesus, God’s gift of hope to the world, and also for the time when Jesus comes again, which is a mystery.
My life feels like a mystery right now, too.
And there are days, even recently, when I start to grow weary as time stretches on and I’m not where I want to be or think I should be. Why does repurposing always have to take so long?
Repurposing my life through healing, preparation and discovery began in my 30’s but continues through today at 62, as I have dared to undertake a new role as an aspiring author. I’ve poured myself into this project for almost two years now and continue to wait to see if my work will amount to anything.
I believe we never stop repurposing, as we learn to live more and more authentically and richly into God’s plans for our lives. And much of this requires waiting. We never actually arrive.
Meanwhile, the moment we get tired in the waiting, God’s spirit is right alongside helping us along. (Romans 8:26, The Message)
The Advent season helps me along, breathing the gift of HOPE into days that can feel uninspired and stale. This gift doesn’t necessarily change the challenges or circumstances. Yet, I find it greeting me cheerfully each morning and holding me, with expectation, through this season of waiting.
Are you waiting, too, as this year draws to a close?
While we wait, may I offer three thoughts? (I write them as reminders to myself, too!)
Be patient.
Not my best attribute. I’m always eager to get moving with the plan! But I’ve
learned over the years to trust God’s timing. This does not mean I don’t get disappointed, hurt or frustrated as I wait. But he knows better than I do what I need and when.
Be content.
Instead of wishing for the next great phase of your life, soak up today. Even in its unsettledness. For many years at Mend, I often felt overwhelmed and burdened. Today, while I wait, I enjoy leisurely walks … quiet times of writing, reflecting and praying … and unhurried time with family and friends. The present is precious!
Believe.
You will not be here forever. This is a stage you can’t go around or over. You must go through it to get to the other side. I know from experience that God does not waste a single moment of our time here on this earth. Especially our waiting. Even if sometimes we feel stuck or like we’re going backwards, God is at work repurposing us!
We’re not meant to do this life alone. Especially through the tough times of waiting. So, I would love to hear where you find yourself waiting these days.
Meanwhile, I’m wishing you a heartwarming holiday and all that the season of Advent
embodies. In abundance!
hope • peace • joy • love