I’m one of those old dogs who is constantly learning.  I’ve spent much of my time on earth learning to be patient, but I never seem to get it.

I had another lesson yesterday as my  group of 12 children, all third grade and younger worked on a shortened version of the Christmas story.  Before  rehearsing we talked a little about our  need for a Savior – we talked about sin – they jiggled and fidgeted into their fluffy sheep costumes – they giggled at how they looked- we talked again about how long everyone had waited for Jesus and how they almost gave up – they played with their head coverings and twisted uncomfortably – we talked about patience and how hard it is to wait for Christmas.  One shepherd complained he didn’t have the right costume while another completely dismantled his costume and by the time our talk was over he no longer was wearing it.

My old mind was trying to keep it together, but I was wondering to myself why they don’t close down school for the month of December.  Kids’ minds certainly aren’t focused on learning.

Then it hit me.  My impatience wasn’t allowing me to enjoy the beauty in this.  We all need a Savior no matter what age we are – we have all sinned and don’t deserve to be forgiven, but we have a gracious God who loves us anyway – we are all impatient for Christmas in more ways than one.

So as the angels spoke about getting ready for the Savior with their halos tilted off to one side – and the sheep talked about how much better David’s singing was then their current caretakers – and the shepherds stirred all over the stage instead of pretending to sleep – I had to stop for just a moment and think about how imperfect we all are and how much we really do need Jesus.

Lord, please give me patience – right now!!