In the 1971, Carly Simon released Anticipation, featuring the song that inspired this album. Eight years later, Heinz Ketchup developed the slogan, “Anticipation is making me wait,” by mixing Carly Simon’s song with images of ketchup slowly flowing out of a bottle. During an interview on National Public Radio, also known as NPR, Carly Simon shared the meaning of Anticipation. While waiting for Cat Stevens to pick her up on their first date, the lyrics to this song were formed and the rest is history.
Although ketchup and God don’t have any thing in common, Heinz’ marketing campaign and Carly Simon’s song illustrate how the Lord works behind the scenes. God allows individuals to experience desperation, causing hearts to develop a sense of urgency. As one hungers for something more in life like the prodigal son in Luke 15:16-20, a recipe for restoration is generated. Thus, despite any anguish, brokenness and heartache people have to endure, the Lord uses desperation to lead hurting souls beside still waters, Psalm 23:1-6.
Everyone understands how painful waiting can be. Whether you’re at the hospital anticipating news from a doctor regarding life or death, impatiently waiting for God to answer your prayers or searching for clues to understand the trial you are currently undergoing, each scenario breeds desperation. Like Nicodemus, seeking out Jesus at night in John 3:1, sometimes you have to humble yourself, realize you’re not in control and kneel before God, Luke 7:37-38. May any lukewarm spirit holding you down be expelled as God uses desperation as a recipe for restoration.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 