October 7

Stepping Heavenward

May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance. — 2 Thess 3:5 BSB

The beloved disciple greets his companions as those who share “in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ” (Revelation 1:9). It is a noble combination, suggesting that the royalty of Christian character grows in proportion to the extent we share in the quiet patience of our Lord. He waited patiently from eternity until the fullness of time came and the hour of His Incarnation arrived. He waited patiently for thirty years in Nazareth, preparing for His life’s work. After His triumphal return to the Father, He sat down at His right hand and waits until His enemies are made His footstool. Even now, He waits with unwavering expectation for the destined end, when all rule, authority, and power will be subdued. All the anguish of the world weighs on His heart; every question about God’s justice is known to Him. Yet, He bears it all with unwavering patience because He sees the end and knows that God will be All in All. It is into this love and patience that we are to be led.

“Into the Love of God.” Every time we affirm that God is Love, despite appearances, and every time we show that love to others, even when our own hearts are breaking, we take another step into His Love. When we say no to self and yes to God, we grow deeper in His love. Dare to believe in God’s love, even when darkness seems to hide it. Trust that His love is over all, through all, and in all.

“Into the patience of Christ.” Let us practice Christ’s patience until life’s sorrows and trials have achieved their purpose. There is a reason for the present condition of the world, if only we knew it. Therefore, don’t judge before the time. Take heart and strengthen your hearts, for God will come and not remain silent. In the meantime, let us keep the word of His patience and display the patience and faith of the saints.

Prayer

Most Blessed Lord, guide our wandering feet into the love of God and into Your infinite patience. Forgive us for being impulsive and headstrong, for murmuring against Your apparent delay in answering our prayers. Quiet our restless hearts with Your peace. Amen.