The Space Between Then and Now

Life often finds us in the spaces between—between what we once knew and what we hope is coming, between the comfort of yesterday and the uncertainty of tomorrow. The in-between can feel like a void, as if we’re straddling two worlds, one foot in the past and the other poised toward an unknown future. But it’s precisely here, in the waiting, that we’re invited to grow in patience, courage, and faith.

Embracing the Stillness

In our fast-paced world, stillness is countercultural. Yet, as Psalm 46:10 reminds us, “Be still, and know that I am God.” We’re not always meant to act or move forward in haste. Sometimes, growth happens when we allow ourselves to rest and listen, not for immediate answers, but for the quiet assurance that God is present, even when the path isn’t clear. This pause is a reminder that peace doesn’t come from a lack of movement but from an inner stillness grounded in trust.

Lessons from Literature

Writers throughout history have explored the tension of the “not yet.” C.S. Lewis once wrote about how "we are half-hearted creatures," longing for something eternal yet often trying to find it in the temporary. His words resonate because they capture our natural inclination to rush to the next moment, missing the richness of the present. Stories, from The Odyssey to Pilgrim’s Progress, show us that the journey itself is as vital as the destination. In learning to appreciate the "now," we prepare ourselves for whatever lies ahead.

Finding Hope in Community

This season of waiting is often shared, even if it feels deeply personal. We see others navigating similar uncertainties—whether in career, relationships, or personal growth. Ecclesiastes 4:9 tells us, “Two are better than one…if one falls, the other can lift them up.” When we allow ourselves to lean on others, sharing burdens and joys, we realize we’re not walking alone. In community, the weight of waiting becomes lighter, and our steps feel less lonely.

Remembering Past Faithfulness

While we stand in the present, it’s often the memory of past faithfulness that steadies us. Just as the Israelites set up stones to remember God’s provision in their journey through the wilderness, we, too, can look back and see moments where we were guided and protected. Deuteronomy 31:8 reminds us, “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you.” Reflecting on these memories fuels our faith that the One who walked with us before is still with us now, guiding us through each step.

The Power of Small Steps

When the future feels overwhelming, it’s easy to become paralyzed. But sometimes, courage is found in taking small, deliberate steps. Each small act of kindness, each prayer, each moment of gratitude becomes a building block toward the future. As poet Mary Oliver asked, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” Purpose doesn’t always come in grand gestures; it often unfolds in small acts of obedience, one day at a time.

Looking Ahead with Expectant Hope

As we live in this space between then and now, we are called to cultivate hope—not unquestioning optimism, but a hope anchored in faith. In Romans 8:25, Paul writes, “But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” This kind of hope doesn’t ignore the challenges of today. Rather, it sees them as part of a greater story, one we’re still learning to understand.

So, let us stand firm in this space, knowing it isn’t a void but a place of potential and growth. Let us embrace stillness, remember past faithfulness, and look forward with expectant hope. For it is here, in the in-between, that we find strength for the journey ahead.