Finding Jesus in the in-between.
A devotional by Sarah W.
Sarah is a wife, mom, pastor, author, worship leader, and life long learner. She serves on the pastoral team at City Church, where she loves helping people encounter Jesus, grow in their faith, and discover their God-given purpose. She loves all things nature, creativity, laughter, and cherishes time spent with her husband and their miracle daughter, Shiloh. She hopes her devotional encourages you to draw closer to Jesus and sit with Him in the waiting.
SCRIPTURE
Mark 3:1-6
Today’s Encouragement
Waiting can be one of the most challenging parts of our faith journey, especially when we've prayed, believed, and imagined how God might answer.
Sarah knows this experience personally. What began as an exciting sense of God's promise for her family became a seven-year journey through infertility before the birth of her daughter, Shiloh Grace. Along the way, she learned something meaningful about sitting with Jesus between a promise and its fulfillment.
In Mark 3:1–6, Jesus heals a man with a deformed hand on the Sabbath, at a time when others believed He shouldn't. This encounter reminds us that God's work doesn't always follow our expectations. Sarah also draws encouragement from Jesus inviting the man to stand before everyone. Sometimes the stories we carry privately can become opportunities to invite others into prayer and share God's goodness.
But perhaps the most important lesson is about the condition of our hearts. Disappointment, fear, and unanswered questions can make waiting difficult. We don't have to hide those feelings from Jesus. We can bring Him our tears, frustrations, and uncertainty while asking Him to keep our hearts tender.
Whatever you're waiting for today, remember that you don't have to navigate the in-between alone. Consider sharing what you're carrying with someone you trust who can pray alongside you. Release the pressure of your own timeline, remain open to God's unexpected ways, and make room for Jesus right where you are.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Where has waiting created disappointment or frustration in your heart, and what would it look like to invite Jesus—and someone you trust—into that part of your journey?
A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Jesus, thank You for being present in every season of waiting. Help us release our expectations of when and how You should move. Give us the courage to invite others into our struggles and the grace to keep our hearts tender, even through disappointment. Holy Spirit, help us recognize Your presence and remain open to the unexpected ways You are working. Amen.
