(Hebrews 6 V 11&12)
Of course the list is daunting
You know, the one that is called
The Fruit of the Spirit.
To read this and give yourself
A mark out of 10 is, in itself an exercise in faith.
On reflection, perhaps not such a good idea.
But this particular one – Patience (Makrothumia)
Occurs also in Hebrews and in this context
One of its meanings has as much weight.
For most of us, patience probably means
The capacity to “remain” or “endure” when tempted to do something.
To “wait” while everything is telling you not to.
This other meaning is described as characteristic
Of those, who, undergoing particular hardship
Or even persecution,
Exercise their power to choose restraint
While at the same time, having the capacity to exercise revenge
Free will has probably no greater test than in returning good for evil.
But, for those who do, the Kingdom is theirs.