Week of June 19, 2000
Melanie H.

"Those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength."

Hikers and backpackers soon learn one of the most important lessons of survival. Even when it seems to take longer to reach the destination, always stick to the trail. Novice hikers are prone to look for shortcuts, and often they are the ones that have to be rescued. What seems to be a shortcut often turns out to be either dangerous or a dead end.

We look for shortcuts in many areas of life because they appear to save us time and a lot of hard work and effort. In many ways we are a "hurry up and get there" society. Waiting is not welcomed. It's resisted; it's resented. Even in our Christian life and walk, we want results now. That's our plan. But is it God's plan?

Resting, quietness, waiting, abiding, dependence on God. These are foreign terms in today's society. Let's slow down our pace. Let's say to ourselves, "Let's pray and wait upon God for an answer." Have you tried that recently? It can add a new dimension to your life.

Oh Lord, slow us down and keep us focused on you. We pray for strength to keep on following Jesus, even when the going is rough. Amen.

Contributed by Rosemary S.
Published Monday June 26, 2000
Week 30 of Liturgical Year B