Like servants, alert to their master’s commands, like a maiden attending her lady, we’re watching and waiting, holding our breath, awaiting your word of mercy. Psalm 123:2, MSG

Lent presents a perfect opportunity to consider how our daily habits of prayer and listening are seen from God’s point of view. The Psalmist has us imagine ourselves at the foot of God’s throne, watching for the slightest movement of his hand. Suddenly, we are more waiter or waitress than one who is anxiously waiting; paused with order pad, watching and listening for what the King of Heaven wants. This is active, confident waiting – not impatient, desperate, distracted, or passive. Waiting that expects a signal at any moment; waiting so attuned that we would hold our breath rather than miss what happens next.

Think of the best waitress or waiter you’ve encountered. Maybe they anticipated your needs, or graciously served without interrupting. Maybe you warmed to their kindness or humility. On the other hand, servers who irritated may have been nervous, overzealous, or too busy to notice your signals.

I am curious what kind of server I look like to God as I pray. How do I compare with Jesus, who made time with urgent ministry demands to get alone and listen? Without listening intently for God’s word of mercy – a word of mercy not for him, but for us – Jesus would have never chosen the path of the cross, and neither will we.

Prayer: King of Heaven, thank you for your many words of mercy to us, first in your son who listened and obeyed perfectly. May we be like Jesus, the wait staff you deserve.