“Waiting time is not wasting time. Waiting patiently in expectation is the foundation of the spiritual life.” – Henri Nouwen

This period of time we're currently in is what I like to call, "the waiting before the wait!" We're in the middle of the obligatory wait for our adoption home study report to be written, approved and finalized. It's been four weeks of silence (on the adoption radar; not in our house- we have a loud 2yro! Ha!). Four weeks of "nothing" happening in our adoption journey...nearly five weeks of just waiting to move forward. Mind you, this isn't even the "big wait" -- that comes after our home study's been approved and finalized -- when we're "live" and our profile is online and distributed to potential birth mothers.

I'm normally not good with waiting, but my attitude  with this is different. Having gone through an adoption process once before, I clearly remember the struggle to remain positive, hopeful and focused during the uncertain times of waiting. I would be lying if I said the process isn’t hard, esp. with the “hurry up and wait” mentality of the adoption process. However, having gone through this process once before and now parenting my beautifully unique daughter, I realize the value of this period of waiting. If I engage, dig in and allow this time of “wait” to turn into listening, learning…being prepared and spoken into, the results are so rich and sweet.

The below song is so powerful and has been on repeat for the last week…He’s in the waiting. He’s here, with me. I have the choice during these moments to either sit frustrated, with arms crossed, ears closed and angry…or I can open my eyes, my hands and my heart and become vulnerable. I can become aware and attune to what He wants to say to me during this time. How do I need to grow? What does it look like to love deeper? More like Jesus? What must I lay down in order to become more like Jesus? What must I sacrifice in order to be filled with His Spirit? How am I being prepared to take the next steps?

"Slow down, take time, breathe in, He said. He'd reveal what's to come. The thoughts in His mind, always higher than mine. He'll reveal all to come.

Sing praise, my soul. Find strength in joy. Let His words lead you on. Do not forget His great faithfulness. He'll finish all He's begun!

Take courage, my heart. Stay steadfast, my soul - He's in the waiting! And hold onto your hope, as your triumph unfolds - He's never failing!

And You who hold the stars. Who call them each by name. You’ll surely keep Your promises to me, that I will rise in Your victory.

He’s in the waiting..." - Take Courage // Starlight // Bethel Music

It’s my prayer that I don’t miss what God’s wanting to do in these moments; that I not quickly pass through these times of waiting. I pray I’m awake and aware, seeking wisdom, and striving to be more like Jesus.

 He’s in the waiting! Let’s meet Him there.