Patience is not a characteristic of the days leading to Christmas. Thank G-d, then, that James uses the example of how a farmer must be patient during the long interval between seedtime and harvest.
James is concerned about the challenges to his little church as they wait for the coming of Jesus. He wants his people to hold on to the energy with which they were initially blessed, because over time old ways were cropping up.
I too need to hear these words, “be patient,” especially now. I need to remember the inevitability of time passing, and that I was never meant to be in control of it.
Advent draws me back to the mystery of the divine, the holy One. Spending time with G-d by checking out of the other stuff sometimes helps me to experience these days with wonder. G-d loves us so much as to come to us every day, not just at Christmas.
Do you know where you need to be more patient? Do you need to ask someone for their patience?
O G-d, giver of every blessing, help me to make space today to spend time with you, silently and without demand. Pour your peace into me, for your peace is the root of patience. Amen. —