Number seven comes from the HOPE series. Throughout 2019, Walt wrote haiku poems to accompany beautiful “Inspirational Images” created by his son Mark. This is an example.

Imagine Waiting

STEP ONE: BREATHE

Take a deep, cleansing breath. Allow the air to fill your lungs and expand your body. Exhale and empty yourself into the room. Repeat three times - once for the one who Created you, once for the Incarnate One who walks beside you, and once for the Spirit whose life fills your being.

STEP TWO: DWELL IN WORD

A Duo of Haikus on Waiting

A long-time passes;

I wait as my mind races.

Frustration builds steam.

Line seems extra slow;

I always pick the wrong one.

Time to learn patience.

QUESTIONS TO PONDER:

When was the last time you waited for God to act in your life? Have you ever made demands that God act in a certain way, according to a certain time-table? How did that go for you? What would it look like to be open while anticipating God’s action? How might you work on increasing patience as an act of prayer?

STEP THREE: RESPOND IN PRAYER

Gracious God, help me to be a better waiter. Empower me to wait for your grace, blessing, correction, and renewal with an expectant spirit. Allow me to trust, breathe deeply, and yearn for the healing, restoration, wisdom, and resurrection that comes only from you. Through Jesus Christ, amen.

Permission granted to share with friends and family. Copyrighted 2019. Walt Lichtenberger