I am in a time of waiting right now; I am between missions. I had my time of practice in Mexico. Now I am heading towards Norway. I wondered, what could I do now to prepare to leave later? Or, more simply put, how could I wait well?

American’s don’t like to wait. We are living in an era when people want instant everything. But we still have to wait for things like:

Department of Motor Vehicles (NM), 14minutes

Doctors appointments, 18minutes

Table at your favorite restaurant, 23 minutes

Oil change, 35-40 minutes

Disneyland Indiana Jones Adventure, up to 56 minutes

Yes, we still have to wait. How do I wait well?

The Bible says in Proverbs 1:5 (NKJV) A wise man will hear and increase learning. And a man of understanding will attain wise counsel.

Hoping to be someone of understanding, I asked around for some advice. How could I wait well? I started with my local Missions Pastor who suggested I talk with people who waited themselves. I received some solid advice from the Pardo’s at B-side Missions, who are currently serving in the Czech Republic. They reminded me of the importance of being who I am and using what God has given me to show love to others.

I am not sure exactly what I was expecting but it was not be myself and love others. When I thought about this I realized it is exactly right. Yes, I need to pick up another language, build my care team, figure out entry, living, working, all that. But the basic, being who God made me and showing love to others, that’s where it’s at.

God gives us each hobbies, talents, gifts… things that make us unique. Things that allow us to interact with others and show them love. There is no one exactly like me, like you, so get out there and spread some love around.

Prayers for the Pardo’s please.