7@7 #107: Lessons from Bethlehem 2

Do you persevere in Patience? Will you wait on God’s promises? Pastor/Professor Andrew Marquez reflects on the Christmas Carol, O Little Town of Bethlehem. Patience prepares us for promises. The prophet Micah predicted great things for Bethlehem 700 years before they would take place. The wondrous scene depicted in the second verse of the carol reflects the fulfillment of prophecy that was patiently longed for. Angels and mortals awaited the promised Messiah. Only those walking in patience witnessed the birth of Christ. Upon fulfillment, however, they proclaimed the message to all.
God calls us to patiently wait upon His promises. This patience builds our character and hope. God's patience permits opportunity for repentance and Gospel proclamation. How are you using the waiting time?

Dr. Andrew Marquez is Director/Dean of Wayland Baptist University's Arizona Campuses (www.wbu.edu/arizona) and Executive Pastor of North Swan Baptist Church (www.northswanbaptist.com).