In Montana, "waiting in line" often turns into an impromptu social hour.
Between locals catching up on elk season and strangers chatting for nearly an hour at a gas pump without ever exchanging names, waiting is simply another opportunity to connect. Out here beneath the Big Sky, people don't always mind slowing down.
According to Google, we spend about six months of our lives sitting at red lights and nearly five years waiting—in lines, on hold, or in traffic. One report even estimates that Americans spend 37 billion hours each year simply waiting.
Today, I decided to pay attention to those moments.
I waited for a waitress to bring our meal. I rang the bell at the hardware store counter and wondered if anyone wanted my money. (They were in the back unloading a truck.)
I waited for traffic to clear before pulling onto the highway. Later, I stopped while a flock of turkeys carefully shepherded their young across the road. A few miles farther, a speckled fawn followed closely behind its mother, reminding me that some moments are simply too precious to rush.
Waiting is woven into everyday life.
Pat Barrett's song I Can Count on You offers a beautiful reminder that while we wait on many things, we never have to wait in line for Jesus.
In a world that prizes instant results, God is never too busy, too distracted, or too far away. He is always ready to listen, comfort, strengthen, and guide.
If there were an app for prayer, perhaps we'd call it "Instant Jesus." Not because God is a convenience, but because He is always available. The moment we call, He hears. The moment we reach for Him, He is already near.
Psalm 145:18 assures us, "The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth." There is no waiting period for God's presence.
And through the prophet Jeremiah, God gently corrects the idea that He is distant: "Am I only a God nearby... and not a God far away?" (Jeremiah 23:23). Our feelings may tell us He's silent, but His Word reminds us He has never left.
Pat Barrett captures it perfectly: "When I think of the ways that You have taken my hand, lifted my head, opened my eyes... poured out grace, called my name, and saved my life... Oh, how I can count on You!"
Today, whether you're waiting for an answer, a healing, a breakthrough, or simply waiting at another stoplight, remember this: God's presence is never delayed. While life may ask us to wait, His love never keeps us standing in line.
Reflection Questions • What are you waiting for today, and how might God be inviting you to trust Him during the wait? • How have you experienced God's nearness even when His answers didn't come as quickly as you hoped?
Prayer Father, thank You that I never have to wait for Your love or Your presence. Help me trust You in every season of waiting, knowing that You are always near, always listening, and always faithful. Teach me to rest in Your perfect timing. In Your mighty name, Amen.