The Unsettling Delay

Have you ever waited for public transportation? I have, and it can be frustrating. A few years ago, during a layover in Washington, D.C., I experienced this. While I waited, something nice happened. A friendly airport attendant saw that I was confused and handed me a detailed map. She marked the path to the nearest bus stop and pointed out important landmarks.  She helped make my short adventure special. It reminded me that exploration can be enjoyable, even in unexpected situations.

As I stood at the bus stop, the sun began its graceful descent toward the horizon, casting long, dramatic shadows that danced across the pavement. The golden light created an enchanting atmosphere wherein every moment felt uncertain and exciting. However, as the minutes slipped by, my eagerness gradually morphed into impatience. Time trickled on, the clock inching toward an hour without a single sight of the bus. Doubt crept in, causing me to second-guess myself. Was I at the right bus stop?

Amidst my uncertainty, the rhythm of the city continued unabated. Locals bustled past me, each absorbed in their own pursuits. I glanced around and found solace in their presence; their confidence reassured me that I was indeed in the correct spot, even if the bus was a no-show. Still, where was that elusive transport? My thoughts raced as I stole anxious glances at my watch, a blend of hope and anxiety swirling within me. I yearned to soak in the iconic sights of the city, all while keeping an eye on the clock to ensure I didn’t miss my flight.

Just when despair began to seep into my thoughts, the unmistakable sound of brakes hissing drew my attention. Finally, the bus appeared, galloping toward the stop an hour and a half late. Its arrival was both a relief and a reminder of my precarious situation.

Life mirrors that delayed bus experience in many ways, doesn’t it? We find ourselves waiting, full of expectation for something significant, only to be caught in an uncomfortable limbo. This unsettling state of anticipation mirrors the uncertainty we face as we wait for our dreams to materialize.

Do you ever feel that life resembles a specific scenario? It seems there’s a divine timetable for everything. While we passionately plan our futures—such as starting a business, waiting to have a child, pursuing education, buying a home, or launching a career—things don’t always unfold as we intend. We often find ourselves in a state of waiting, troubled by the fear that these delays signify denial rather than mere postponement.

You work hard to resist the temptation of comparing your journey to that of your peers, who seem to thrive in the very areas where you aspire to excel. There are times when it feels as if our relentless efforts and unwavering dedication yield only minimal results. The countless seeds of hope and determination we've sown often seem to disappear into the soil, leaving no visible trace and prompting us to question the value of our labor. Disappointment and delays can become unwelcome companions on our paths, and it’s rare to see someone genuinely embrace this challenging season of waiting. Sometimes, the stillness can overshadow our joy, dimming the brightness we once felt.

Yet, even amid these trials, we are frequently reminded of a profound and comforting truth: “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10, ESV). This reassurance encourages us to find solace and strength in our faith, even when the world around us feels stagnant.

It's so easy to forget that God is the true author of time, holding it gently in His hands. He knows the plans He has for each of us, even when we struggle to see them. The Bible reminds us: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD (Isaiah 55:8). During times of waiting, it's essential to remember that a delay does not mean denial; it may simply be a moment of preparation for the blessings that are yet to come. “We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). So, if you're experiencing delays in your life, hold onto this promise: it doesn't mean what you seek is being denied. You're not alone in this journey; hope is always on the horizon.

By Sandra Jean Charite