120 of 365 - Worth the Wait

And they were both righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and statutes of the Lord. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years.  Luke 1:6-7
 
The waiting theme continues. Do you ever look around and wonder, “How long, God? When will it be my time?” Do you try your best and work hard, but still nothing seems to be happening for you? Maybe all around you are people who seem to be abundantly blessed with life falling into perfect place for them, while you wait. And wait. And wait.
 
The Israelites have been waiting 400 years with no words spoken through prophets at this point. Sometimes when we are in this time of waiting, we begin to lose our hope and certainty in God and His promises.
 
Luke begins with an introduction of two people who have been in a long season of waiting. A priest, Zechariah, and his wife, Elizabeth. They are both described as righteous before God. They are walking blamelessly in all the commandments and statutes of the Lord. BUT, they have no child. Despite many prayers, Elizabeth has been unable to have children. AND they are old; the time for having their own child has long passed.
 
“How long, God? Why have you forgotten us?” they might be thinking in their moments of weakness and heartbreak. “We are faithful. We do all that you have commanded. Everyone around us – even the evil ones – have children, while we have none. Why, oh Lord?” deep pain rooted from years of seemingly unanswered prayer.
 
But God is always faithful. God’s timing is much different than our timing. He sees a much wider view of the world than we do. Even though we can’t see all the pieces or the purpose for the waiting, know that He is always working behind the scenes as we will see in the unfolding of this story that becomes part of God’s perfect plan.
 
Questions: Do you ever look around and feel like things are happening for everyone but you? Is there something you are waiting for? How do you handle waiting?