Therefore it is necessary that of the men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us— beginning with the baptism of John until the day that He was taken up from us—one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.” So they put forward two men, Joseph called Barsabbas (who was also called Justus), and Matthias. Acts 1:21-23
Singer and songwriter Tom Petty was right: The waiting is the hardest part. While the eleven remaining apostles were waiting for the promised baptism of the Holy Spirit, Peter suggested they fill the missing office occupied by the betrayer Judas. Sometimes, just waiting is the hardest thing in life. Being “between” two seasons is difficult, boring, and seemingly without action. Did Peter act presumptuously? I wonder. Because we never really read much about the twelfth apostle chosen, but we do about the apostle Paul. I do find it interesting that the some of the qualifications for apostleship were stated- eyewitness of Jesus’ resurrection, accompaniment of His miracles and ministry, choosing by God. Later, Paul would describe himself as ‘one born out of time’ (or due season). However, he would see Jesus’ ministry and miracles and become an eyewitness to His resurrection in his Damascus road experience. He clearly was God’s choice.
What season am I in right now? Is it one of waiting? How can I “take it by faith, take it to the heart” and simply acknowledge that the waiting is the hardest part.
Lord, Your ways and will are marvelous. I feel as though I am at the end of one season, midway into a new one, and anticipating the next. Thank you for the addition of baby Kennedy in our lives, the fun of learning in law school, the first mission trip Maureen will be going on. But, there are some difficult seasons I wish would change. Help my daughter find rich prayer times with You. Guard my mom’s health and life and restore her energy and vitality day by day. Bless the boys in their endeavors. Help me be a good “wait-er”. I know, love is patient!
