The Blessings of Waiting

We wait for doctor’s appointments. We wait in line at the pharmacy. We wait to see what the next medical test will show. We wait quietly at our loved one’s bedside.

Waiting is part of caregiving—but it isn’t easy. When nothing seems to be happening, we can become impatient and anxious. We want things to start moving!

But waiting can be a form of activity. Waiting creates a pause that, if used correctly, can help us to linger and to listen. We can stop and collect our thoughts. We can take a few deep breaths and rest in God’s care, even if we can’t find the words or the energy to talk with Him.

Waiting allows us time to absorb our surroundings and enjoy a quiet moment. We can savor the sights, listen intently to the sounds, and touch base with our emotions. We can drink in all that is occurring around us instead of gulping it down.

The downtimes allow us to open our hearts to be with God. Each wait-and-see moment holds His promises and blessings, because God waits and watches with us.