A Delayed Opening

For the kids it’s almost as good as a snow day (well, not nearly!). For the parents it’s a bit of a nightmare. A delayed opening for school due to difficult weather may have the kids celebrating another hour or two at home, but it can be a bit of a headache for parents. I’m sure such was the case for many families this past week here in our part of New Jersey as many schools, including the pre-school which Kim directs, had a delayed opening due to the projection of snow mixed with ice and rain early in the morning. 

Except for the kids who don’t mind a delayed opening of school, delays are not usually what we hope or wish for. After all, who likes to get to the airport and find out that their flight was delayed? Who enjoys standing at the train station waiting for a train that has been delayed? Who wants to get to their doctor’s appointment only to be told the doctor was delayed? And who of us enjoys being delayed as we sit in a traffic jam (which happens easily here in New Jersey)?  

I would venture to say, none of us likes to be delayed. Delays throw us off schedule. Delays can impact not just the moment but the rest of our day. And the delays we face can impact not only our lives and schedules, but as well those whom we were to meet. Delays can become a real test of our patience. 

For two thousand years, Christians have wrestled with the feeling that the return of Jesus has been delayed. After all, the first century  church, way back then, thought his return would be during their lifetime. And such has been the case for each and every generation of Christians. Obviously, however, he has not yet returned. From our point of view, it can seem as if Jesus’ return has been delayed. And for many, that has been quite frustrating, disconcerting, and a test of their faith and patience. 

That is why the Apostle Peter wrote, “But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:8-9 – NIV) 

Peter reminds us that, although from our perspective, the return of Jesus might seem as if it has been delayed, such is not the case. God is not slow. He is not behind schedule. He knows the timing of all things. And at just the right time, Jesus will return. Jesus is not facing a delay. 

The writer to the Hebrews put it this way, “You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.  For ‘In just a little while, he who is coming will come and will not delay.’” (Hebrews 10:36-37) 

Although we may become frustrated by the many delays we face in our everyday lives, let’s not become frustrated with the fact that it can feel as if Jesus has been delayed. Yes, we long for his coming. Our hearts may cry out with the scriptures, “Maranatha! Even so, Lord Jesus come!” Yet, we must determine to be patient and persevere in our faith, knowing that God’s timing is always the best. He is never delayed. 

Have a great day! 

- Pastor Tim Harris