Peace in the Fire of Waiting by Rev. Dr. Lil Smith

Therefore, beloved, while you are waiting for these things, strive to be found by him at peace, without spot or blemish; and regard the patience of our Lord as salvation. 2 Peter 3:14-15a

I imagine, at the time of Jesus' birth, the shepherd's waiting in the fields at night were very familiar with the night sky. We were very familiar with a comfortable, free-flowing schedule to our day, pre-COVID 19.

I imagine, when there was something unexpected in the sky, the shepher's sought shelter for their flock. Vising the fields of Beit Sahour several years ago, I was amazed at the intricate caves built by the shepherds, safe shelter for the shepherds and the flock.

I imagine the warmth of an entire flock stuffed into the maze of the caves. I also imagine the noises and the smells. Where is peace in the midst of the unexpected, I wonder?

This year I find myself in my own cave of sorts, a cave of isolation for safe shelter. Where is peace in the midst of waiting for these things: freedom, restoration, family gatherings? God's invitation in 2 Peter is to be at peace in the waiting.

By my calculation, we are already past the full gestation of a human child. And, we are still waiting for the birth. For anyone who has accompanied an overdue pregnant mother, I am reminded of these words: discomfort, fear, agitation, unbalanced. When an overdue pregnant mother is asked to be patient, what words emerge for you? My first thought are these words: get this thing out of me! It might feel good to release the words, but she is still waiting.

Where is the peace in waiting?

For me today, the invitation is to remain in trust.

Trust that God also feels your words, and take a few moments to spew into the words of discomfort, fear, agitation and unbalance. (Please, do not spew these words on your neighbor.) Then return to the light of God to trust the Holy and embrace the peace that God has for you. Light a candle. Your cave is a safe shelter, after all.

Candle Light

The warmth you conduct

breaks the ice

The light you bear

guides the blind

The dance you import

begets the smile

The way you nurture

imparts hope

The life you conceive

creates joy

Welcome Advent

Lil Smith

Founder Retreat House

Trained Spiritual Director

This excerpt is part of Retreat House’s Daily Light series. To sign up to receive these, email us.