Waiting

I'm reading a book called "Heaven" by Randy Alcorn. HIGHLY recommend this book! Here's a concept that is amazing to me:


Rev 6:9-11
When the Lamb opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained. They called out in a loud voice, 'How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?' Then each of them was given a white robe, and they were told to wait a little longer, until the number of their fellow servants and brothers who were to be killed as they had been was completed."

From this passage of three short verses, Mr. Alcorn summizes 21 brief observations concerning heaven. 21! You'll have to get the book and read them for yourself. (there is much more to the book than just these 21 things, by the way) But here is one that hit me over the head:

"God promises to fulfill the martyrs' requests, but says they will have to "wait a little longer" (v.11). Those in the present Heaven live in anticipation of the future fulfillment of God's promises. ...

There is time in the present Heaven (vv.10-11). The white-robed martyrs ask God a time-dependent question: "How long, Sovereign Lord...until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?" (v.10) They are aware of time's passing and are eager for the coming day of the Lord's judgement. God answers that they must "wait a little longer" until certain events transpire on Earth. Waiting requires the passing of time."

Can you imagine? You're in Heaven. In the presence of God. Able to ask Him questions, sit down with Him and have a chat. You see the preparations and building going on for the New Earth and New Jerusalem. Maybe you're even involved with the building project. You know first hand what is coming and how INCREDIBLY AMAZING it is going to be with our new bodies, living in a new world for all eternity...and you still have to wait? Knowing all that!?

Why do I EVER complain about waiting?