in the night my hand is stretched out without wearying; my soul refuses to be comforted.
Psalm 77:2
Reflection by Libby Robertson
I think sometimes we pray and expect immediate answers. The reality is that answered prayers may take longer-much longer. I believe prayers are answered, maybe not like I imagined they would be, and sometimes the torture is very real before the prayer is answered. It sometimes feels like my soul is ripped from my body and still one prayer remains unanswered. I believe in those days of waiting, God wants me to be faithful in prayer. This is not easy. It hurts so very much sometimes that you don't want to continue; my life I would gladly exchange. I pick myself up by remembering everything God has already done for me and I give thanks. There are times when I feel unworthy. I pray, I cry, I despair and I sometimes I scream. Then I remember that God gives us grace and this grace cannot be taken away.
I will keep seeking and praying as long as my soul allows. I will continue to find comfort in the other great and wonderful things in my life. I have prayed for forgiveness and I believe. I accept God's mercy and I wait. Tears of sorrow and release run down my face as I pray always for a dear sweet part of my life whose body and soul is in great turmoil. I pray, I cry, I despair, and sometimes I scream. And I wait. And I give thanks. And I pray.
Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified: do not be discouraged, for the Lord our God will be with us, wherever we go (Joshua 1:9).
Think Outside the Manger is a daily Advent devotional written and produced by members of St. Anne's Episcopal Church in Tifton, GA. Visit www.stannestifton.com to learn more.
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