Building Patience

As I write this morning I am watching a variety of workers come and go across the street as they work on the building we hope to occupy in the next few weeks.  It will be a social hall, complete with both indoor and outdoor kitchens, a large pantry and another large storage closet. It is something our church has needed for some time.

            I’ve been watching the construction for most of the year.  The process of building fascinates me. Perhaps this is because I did construction work during the summers I was in college.  I’ve pushed wheelbarrows filled with concrete blocks and mortar. I’ve nailed boards and carried shingles up ladders. 

            Many of the techniques have changed. I used a twenty-ounce Plumb hammer. Today they use power hammers.  Much more efficient I am sure, and no smashed thumbs. 

            Many things are still the same. Construction is hard, hot work.  And it takes time.  And because of that time we must learn to be patient. 

            From the day our church voted to build I have been anxious to eat the first meal in the new social hall.  As the foundation was poured I thought about frying fish in the screened outdoor facility, knowing we wouldn’t have to fight off as many bugs.  And so, as Ioften say to my wife, “I’m patiently waiting patiently,” all the while not truly exhibiting that patience I claim.

            The Bible speaks often of patience, and even declares that the Lord is patient with us. The word is sometimes translated, “longsuffering.” Isn’t that a great definition for patience?  We actually do suffer long as we wait.

            And yet, our patience helps us to grow.  I want to learn to be more patient, but I’m too often frustrated as I wait.   I pray that the Lord will enable me to trust Him enough to be patient as He continues to work in my life. After all, “He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ,” (Philippians 1:6). You can count on it.