I often find it difficult waiting for anything. If I want a reply to a question, an email, a phone message or buying my food from a takeaway or order from a restaurant I want it straight away. This has led me to reflect on why is waiting so difficult?

In my case I think it is due to wanting to be straight away. I want my answer to the question, email or phone call so I can move on to my next actions to fulfil my needs. Moreover, with the food I want my hunger satiated so I can be contented. Thus, my motives are purely self-aggrandisement.

For the disciples, I have a different take. I imagine when Jesus said he would return to earth that the disciples thought he would be back in their lifetime.

“So, you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” Matthew 24:44

I think for the disciples the waiting for Jesus was because they needed his support but once they realized they had the ability to continue Christ’s mission without him their anxiety diminished.

Finally, I have also come to the conclusion that sometimes if we just wait for events to unfold they have a way of working themselves out. Consequently, how we need to proceed further becomes clearer and may result in a more positive outcome than if we acted.

Therefore, I believe waiting is more than just looking for a response so we can get on with the next part of our life or satisfying a need. I believe it is about reassurance which gives us hope to continue our life and faith journey.