In the 1970s, a Heinz ketchup commercial used the lyrics from the song “Anticipation” by Carly Simon: “Anticipation, anticipation is makin’ me late, is keepin’ me waitin’…” The gist – Heinz ketchup was so thick and delicious that it kept you waiting with anticipation as it slowly plopped, not flowed, onto your burger. Their thick and tasty ketchup was worth the wait. In fact, their slogan was, “It’s slow good.”
Maybe you remember this commercial too? For a chuckle, check this corny commercial out:
The word “anticipation” has been ringing in my mind for a year now. I have had many things to anticipate. In my family, there was my daughter, Emma’s wedding, my son, Nick’s bell ringing, confirming him as an Owner/Operator of the soon-to-be Wrigleyville Chick-fil-a, and his upcoming spring wedding.
At work, I anticipated with much excitement, and waited many months, for the job of Adult Ministries Director of Good Shepherd Church in Naperville, IL. After 30 years of leading women, God opened a new door to expand my skills and ministry reach. In this same timeframe, all of us at Good Shepherd waited eagerly for a new Senior Pastor. It was “keepin’ us waitin’,’” but alas, she has arrived! And we celebrate our new leader, Tara Beth Leach!
Personally, I have anticipated the launching of “Meet Him at the Cross, Discovering Christ’s Passion for You.” My first authored Bible study. It took months of persistence, dedication, and tenacity on my part. It was one of those projects that I wanted to do but didn’t want to do. I’m sure you’ve been there. Each day was met with hope and dread, but my anticipation of the Holy Spirit’s presence kept me going. He never failed me. And I finished. It was a struggle and a joy for sure. (To purchase your downloadable version with teaching videos, click here.)
Today, I launch. I’m scared. What if no one is interested? What if no one likes it? What if it’s a total failure? What if… Sometimes anticipation causes anxiety.
But in the Bible, “anticipation” is “getting ready for what God has told you is coming.” Noah began building the ark, by faith, “in anticipation of a flood when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear to save his family” (Hebrews 11:7).
What are you waiting with anticipation for? Is your anticipation filled with angst or delight?
One of my favorite verses that I cling to when faced with uncertainty or anticipation is: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope” (Romans 15:13).
Whatever it is that you’re facing, anticipate God’s goodness. Expect Him to show up. It may feel like He’s “keepin’ you waitin’” but I assure you, He’s on His way because He’s “slow good.”
Do you believe it? Here’s your equation to keep in mind: Belief + Anticipation = Joy. Peace. & Hope.
Now, that sure is good!
