The deep summer sky spilled endless blue across the ocean. My husband and I sat on an outdoor patio. It was our honeymoon and we’d decided to splurge on a fancy dinner. A waiter approached the table with a smile. For the next two hours he waited on us–our every desire His to fullfill.
When we think of waiting we tend to think of a passive act. But in biblical times, the term “wait” would more likely have been like that of the waiter at our table that evening in many ways. For example, servants waited on masters. My definition of waiting is simply “to expectantly watchful.”
We all know these words…
Those who wait on the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31
The “wait” here is full of activity–soaring, running, walking.
Yes there are times when waiting requires literal stillness. But many times we wait as we go about fulfilling the desires of the Master. This verse promises that approaching life in this way actually renews our strength. We have what we need to keep going, to persevere, to do what the One We Love asks of us.
As we enjoyed dinner that evening, our waiter always hovered close by. He watched until he saw a moment when he could be of service. And then he met the need with a willing heart. When we left, he looked like he was wrapping up a hard day’s work, yes, but also that what he’d done had been satisfying.
Being renewed is much the same. It comes from waiting expectantly, from being of service, from getting to be a small part in meeting the needs around us.
Most of all, it comes from bringing joy to the One Who Loves Us.
How is God asking you to “wait” on Him today?
–Holley Gerth
