Waiting and Learning by Heidi Dru Kortman

Text: Romans 8:18-19, 23-25

“I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. …we ourselves who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.”

            I have a long way to go to match the Apostle Paul’s level of maturity. He had his physical sufferings, and admitted them. I have mine, and whine. Paul refused to compare his circumstances with anything. I regularly compare my limitations with other physical talents. Paul looked forward to glory then as I do now, but I sometimes find it hard to believe that any glory hides behind my body or inner being.

            

Creation waits to see the identities of the sons of God. I often wonder if the Holy Spirit is producing any fruit in me. I am eager for the redemption of my body. I often joke with my friends that in heaven I will be a gymnast, dancer, or skater—anything graceful. Of course, Paul means that after the resurrection or Christ’s return, we will receive bodies like our Savior’s, to match the changed hearts and attitudes the Holy Spirit gives.

          

  This is almost more a matter of curiosity for me than hope. I am not sure how to hope for such a mystery. Waiting I can understand. I do it every minute of every day; so do you. Patience is something I’m still working on. My inner self is more likely to jump up and down in a temper tantrum and scream “I want it now!” Of course, God doesn’t see it that way, and if I really tried jumping in rage, I’d more than likely wind up prone on the floor.

            How can I move beyond such infantile behavior and make the best possible use of this waiting time? One of the best ways is through prayer. Not for myself, but for others. Paul often mentioned the time he spent praying about others’ needs. Ephesians 3:14-21 is an excellent passage, full of specific requests and praise for God’s character. “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we can ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” (vs. 20-21).

            Prayer:

            Lord, you alone truly know Your intent for us. Give us glimpses now and then, that our patience and endurance may grow strong, until the moment that we join You, or You return to us again. Jesus, we pray for the glory of Your kingdom. Amen.

Heidi Dru Kortman DTM

God's gifts and call are irrevocable.

heididrukortman.com.

Heidi Dru Kortman, a CWG Apprentice graduate, ACFW member since 2004, and Word Weaver member has published devotionals in various newsletters, and a collected volume of devotionals. Her poetry, flash fiction, and short stories have appeared in small magazines, and a website. She is applying herself to the task of writing smoothly polished fiction.