By Kim Mazyck
Isaiah 35:1-6a, 10 | James 5:7-10 | Matthew 11:2-11
Be patient, therefore, beloved, until the coming of God… Strengthen your hearts, for the coming of God is near (James 5:7-8).
Patience often feels like the last word anyone wants to hear when they have energy about a particular issue and/or thought. Patience does not mean inaction; it is a call to be still, to think, and then to act. In the nonviolent movement, many leaders exhibited patience that they practiced as part of their faith traditions. As they thought about the issues and the systems to be addressed, they did not choose to remain quiet and do nothing; they prayed and developed a plan. Their plans provided a way to respond and eventually led to significant changes in history. When we want to address and issue or problem, we must make our hearts firm and wait. In our stillness, the Holy Spirit will speak to us, will make us strong, and will prepare a way before us.
REFLECTION: How do we let our impatience stop us from listening to the Holy Spirit?
This reflection is from this year’s booklet, Unshakeable Belief: Advent 2013 and is available online here. Kimberly Mazyck is a member of the Pax Christi USA National Council and the Church Relations Manager for Catholic Relief Services.