Already and Not Yet

I began the day with a young man whom I have watched grow into maturity. We talk about his future plans for life and ministry, and reflect on the way he so encouraged me during a tough stretch in last year's journey. In short, we reflect upon the goodness of God.

Later I ring London and talk to one of our team members there. We discuss recruiting prospects, prayer and the need to set up appointments to see people in heaven. In short, we reflect upon the goodness of God.

This evening I stop by the home of a sick friend. We discuss the challenges of the present, some hopes for the future, and the way HE sustained us during past trials. In short, we reflect upon the goodness of God.

Later I ring a friend who was too sick to work today. We still manage a few laughs, and stories before we pray and think about some challenges that lie ahead. In short, we reflect upon the goodness of God.

Each story mixes the "already and the not yet." God has been good to us. We know He will carry us home. But there is a stretch yet to be traveled. We share the realization that God has been good, even as we savor the anticipation that He has more to give us. So, we wait for the full measure of His goodness to be revealed in us, before us and through us.