12.21

Burdensome Quest (God & Marne)

1 Cor 13:12

12  For now we see only a reflection, as in a mirror, but then we will see face to face. Now I know only in part; then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known.

I was playing in a doubles tennis match a few years back and was losing to 2 ladies that were 20 years my senior. I was so frustrated and it sure was showing. Before we started the second set, one of my opponents came over to the net and gently said to me “patience- you need to have patience.” She was absolutely correct, but I had no idea how to “have patience.” At that time in life, I simply did not have any!

In this world of google we have come to expect gratification, knowledge, and solutions… immediately. There are so many things we “need” to know and have to happen now.

When we overwhelm ourselves with these desires, we become frustrated, angry, depressed, and we can lose faith. 

But having faith in God nurtures patience, which is essential for a life of great peace and joy!

While my opponent’s comment did not help me win the match that particular day, 20+ years later I think about her words almost every day. 

Patience. Relax. Breathe. Faith.

We don’t need all the answers now. If we can release that burdensome quest for answers and have faith, God will enlighten us in due time.

—Marne Jenkins